History of the Dewitt guard, company A, 50th regiment National guard, state of New York

HISTORY

(L

OK THE

DeWitt Guard,

COMPANY A,

50th Regiment Naticnal Gaard,

STATE

OF

NEW YORK.

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PUBLISHED BY

THE COMPANY,

ITHACA, N. Y.:
ANDRUS, McCHAIN & CO., STEAM PRINTERS.

186G.

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PUB

THE Ni:W YORK

IC LIBRARY

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Ti_D,N FOU-Da.IONS

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PREFACE.

Our object in giving to the public a full, true,
and concise history of Company A, 50th Regi-
ment National Guard, State of New York, bet-
ter known to the citizens of Ithaca as the De-
Witt Guard, is to show as honorable a record
as can be produced by any similar organization
— so far as the membersliip of this Company was
connected with the army and navy of the Uni-
ted States during the late rebellion. We shall
show that the total membership of the Company
from the time of its organization, in December,
1851, to the present time, has been two hundred
and two, of which eighty-two served either in
the army or navy during the war against eighty-
eight who did not j twenty-nine names appear
on the Company roll, of whom it is not known
to the writer whether they were or were not in
the army, and nine who died previous to the
war. We have undertaken a brief personal his-
tory to each, which we believe will be interest-
ing to the reader.

4 Preface.

We also wisli to sliow tliat the Company has
been, from the tune of its organization to the
present, a self-supporting and self-sustaining in-
stitution, until recently receiving nothing from
tlie State but arms, and that the individual mem-
bers have contributed the sum of two thousand
seven hundred and twenty dollars and fifty-six
cents, to which amount should be added a liber-
al percentage for disbursements which do not
appear on Company records.

We propose to give the name of each member
of the DeWitt Guard from its organization, the
date of his enlistment, his profession, with such
incidents as we think will be of interest to the
reader, after which we shall give the history of
the Company collectively. There may be those
who ' have belonged to the Company whose
names will not appear in these pages. This
must be attributed to the fact of their not sign-
ing the muster-roll of the Company, as every
name there recorded is introduced in the fol-
lowina; historv.

HISTORY.

Arch. H. McNeil, Merchant, enlisted No-
vember 5th, 1851. At the first election of com-
panj officers McNeil was chosen second Lieu-
tenant, which position he honorably and credit-
ably filled to the time of his death, which oc-
curred November 28th, 1855. To Lieutenant
McNeil the Company were much indebted. To
him more than any other one man, belonged the
credit of organizing the Company.

He was loved, respected, and honored by both
officers and men, and his death caused a breach
not easily repaired. Upon receiving intelli-
gence of his death, the Company were immedi-
ately called together and the following resolu-
tions unanimously adopted :

Resolved, Tliat in the death of Lieutenant A. H. McNeil
the members of this Company have not only lost a commis-
sioned officer in whom a zealous, lively and effective interest
for the welfare of the Company always prevailed, but an offi-
cer wliose military bearing commanded our respect, and a
fellow soldier whose conduct and kindness has merited and

6 History of the

won our esteem. -That we deeply feel his loss, and mourn
his untimely departure from our midst,

Resolved, That we tender to the widow and relatives of our
deceased officer our sincere condolence in this their great af-
fliction.

Resolved, That we accompany the remains of our late offi-
cer to the depot on the morrow, and that a delegation of
seven men accompany his remains to the city of Auburn as
an escort and attend his funeral.

Resolved, That on all parades we will wear the usual badge
of mourning for one year.

At a special meeting held on the return from
Auburn of the escort which accompanied the re-
mains of Lieut. A. H. McNeil, and after hearing
the report of the officer commanding said escort,
the following preamble and resolutions were
unanimously adopted :

"Wheeeas, An escort fi'om this Company having been del-
egated to accompany and perform the last sad duties over
the remains of our esteemed friend, Lieut. A. H. McN'eil, at
Auburn, and while there having met with reception and at-
tention which ever characterize the true and tried friend and
soldier, be it therefore

Resolved, That to General Segoin and Colonel Jenkins, and
their respective staffs, to the Auburn City Guard, Willard
Guard, and to the delegation from other Companies, we as a
Company return them our sincere and heartfelt thanks for
the manner in which they cared for them, and the kindness
with which they were every where greeted by them while
there, and in the admirable arrangements for the funeral

DeWitt Guard. 7

made at such short notice, and for the cheerful and hand-
some manner in wliich they were carried out ; gratified as
we are, words can only attempt a description of our feelings
of the manner in which they alleviated our sorrows in the
burial of our dead. And although the deceased had not re-
sided among them for years, yet like us they appreciated his
many virtues and, remembered his uniform kindness to all,
and when they but learned of his decease, their tears mingled
with ours at our irreparable loss.

Resolved, That in future, should it be possible for us to re-
pay them in any manner that it will be forthcoming, feeling,
as we do, that no sacrifice will be too great in attempting a
return of their kindness in the hour of our aflliction, and as
individuals, as citizens and as soldiers, we hope that the
choicest of Heaven's blessings may be theirs, and that their re-
spective staffs and Companies may ever meet with prosperity.

George H. Collins, Merchant, enlisted No-
vember 5th, 1851. Mr. Collins was permitted to
serve but a short time as a member of the Com-
pany, as he was selected by the Colonel and
commissioned Adjutant of the Regiment, which
position he held for many years. Changing his
residence to the city of New York, Iiis connec-
tion with the 50tli Regiment was dissolved.

Ben. B. Wilcox, Hotel keeper, enlisted No-
vember 5th, 1851. Served with the Company
but a short time ; removed to Owego ; was for
a time proprietor of the Ah-Wa-Ga House, but
more recently of a hotel at Saratoga Springs.

8 History vf the

William M. Smith, Brewer, enlisted Novem-
ber 5th, 1851. Served but a short time.

H. F. Randolph, Shoe Merchant, enlisted No-
vember 5th, 1851. Mr. Randolph had more than
served his time, and reached the rank of Cap-
tain, in the old militia before joining this organ-
ization. He was an officer of no common at-
tainments— prompt, active and generous. The
interest he had always manifested, and now felt,
in military matters, compelled liim to join this
new enterprise ; he enlisted as a private, and is
to this day an honorary member of the Compa-
ny. He has accompanied them on many an ex-
cursion, and is always invested with the com-
mand of the honorary members. The Captain
has now attained the age of sixty-three years,
and is still as smart, hale and hearty as a lad of
sixteen.

J. C. McWiiORTER, Merchant, enlisted No-
vember 5th, 1851. Remained but a short time
with the Company, but the soul-stirring strains
of music, as rendered by him on the snare drum
while he was a member, will Ion 2: be remem-
bered by those associated with him during his
short military experience.

Fred. S. Lamoureux, Musician, enlisted No-

DeWitt Guard. 9

vember 5tli, 1851. Was a very valuable mem-
ber for a very short time ; for while resting
from the fatigue of drill, Lamoureux always fur-
nished the music for the ligldfoot portion of the
Company.

William S. Allen, Carpenter, enlisted No-
vember 6th, 1851. Was a faithful and exem-
plary member for a few years, and undoubtedly
his connection with this Company gave him the
position he has honorably filled since his remo-
val from us — that of policeman in New York
city. He was consequently transferred as Ser-
geant from this Company to Sergeant of police
in that city.

K. Morris, Clothing Merchant, enlisted No-
vember 7th, 1851. Served but a short time.

S. Newmakk, Clothing Merchant, enlisted
November 10th, 1851. Served faithfully for a
short time and was granted an honorable dis-
charge.

J. G. Conrad, Clerk, enlisted November 8th,
1851. Mr. Conrad faithfully performed the du-
ties of a member of this Company for a short
time.

L. R. King, Merchant, enlisted November

9th, 1851. At the time of the organization of

1-

10 History of the

the CompaLy, Mr. King was elected fourth Ser-
geant, and by promotion filled each office up to
first Lieutenant, and was in command of the
Company for some time. Lieutenant King, by
his kind and pleasing way, and the interest he
ever manifested in the welfare of the Company,
commanded the respect and admiration of every
man who served under him. He held the com-
mission of first Lieutenant from May 28th, 1856,
to August 25th, 1862. Upon his resignation
being accepted, he was voted an honorary mem-
bership for life. He is one of the enterprising
firm of Treman, King & Co., large manufactur-
ers. We believe that Mr. King can look back
upon the years spent in the DeWitt Guard as
not altogether unprofitable.

W. B. Hatfield, Clerk, enlisted November
15th, 1851. Mr. Hatfield was a good soldier ;
was in the employ of L. H. Culver, Esq.; re-
tained his connection with the Company and his
employer until his removal to the West.

Spence Spencer, Book Merchant, enlisted
November 15th, 1851. Retained his member-
ship but a short time, but with the liberality
which was always a prominent characteristic of
Mr. Spencer, ho donated to the Company a com-

DeWitt Guard. 11

pletc uniform, which is the first recorded gift
made to the DeWitt Guard. He is still a citi-
zen of Ithaca, and has of late attached no small
degree of honor to his name by publishing the
book entitled, " The Scenery of Ithaca."

L. MiLLSPAUGH, dealer in Harness, Trunks,
&c., enlisted November 15th, 1851. Mr. Mills-
paugh was an old soldier before joining this
Company, having held the commission of Lieut.
Colonel in the old militia, issued by Gov. Sew-
ard in 184*2 ; but feeling a deep interest in the
organization of a new Company, enlisted as a
private. On the 29th day of January, 1852, he
was elected first Corporal, which position he
held but a short time, as he was gradually pro-
moted until he had filled nearly all the grades
of non-commissioned offices. He always de-
clined accepting a commission, and when it
seemed to be the unanimous wish of the Compa-
ny, his prompt reply was " No." He continued
an invaluable member until long after he had
served liis time, (seven years,) when he was grant-
ed an honorable discharge. Our friend, by his
emphatic '' No," has not been as successful, how-
ever, in a political way, he having repeatedly
been called to fill civil offices of honor and trust;

12 History of the

and by his being re-elected to most of the offices
he has held, is in itself sufficient to show his
standing in the community in which he lives.
Whether all this would have been so, had he
never joined the DeWitt Guard, we leave for a
discriminating public to judge.

J. B. Terry, Merchant, enlisted November
15th, 1851. Mr. Terry filled the office of Sec-
retary of the Company for the firsc two years of
its existence. He was a good soldier, an exem-
plary and respected citizen, and the tiommunity
generally mourned his loss when he was removed
by death.

Jerome Rowe, Lawyer, enlisted November
18th, 1851. Some unhappy misunderstanding
caused the withdrawal of Mr. Rowe from the
Company during the early part of its history.
He was untiring in Ids endeavors to establish
the organization, and the same energy and de-
votion which he displayed at that time, has fol-
lowed him thus far through life. He filled the
office of Special County Judge of Tompkins
County, with honor to himself and perfect satis-
faction to the people. He entered the army of
the United States April 1st, 1861, was commis-
sioned Captain of Company A, 32d New York

DeWitt Guard. 13

volunteers, same date, and served as such one
year.

Hugh McDonald, enlisted November 18tb,
1851. Was elected Orderly Sergeant Dec. 31st
of the same year, which position he filled as long
as he was a resident of the village. McDonald
was a soldier of much experience, having served
in the Mexican war, where he became perfectly
familiar with the duties pertaining to the soldier
in the field. As a drill-master he was not ex-
celled, and under his instruction the Company
soon became very proficient in the manual of
arms, and school of the soldier and Company.
At the outbreak of the Rebellion he enlisted in
a Pennsylvania Regiment, was very soon promo-
ted to Captain, and again to Major. We should
be glad to give a full history of his life through
the war, but have been unable to obtain it.
This much we can say, he was a patriotic citi-
zen, a true soldier, and a faithful officer.

N. H. Curtis, Upholsterer, enlisted Novem-
ber 19th, 1851. Was long connected with the
Company; filled the posts of Corporal and Ser-
geant. After a long residence in our village,
he removed to the West, where he survived but
a few years.

14 History of the

Daniel Place, Jeweler, enlisted November'
1851. Mr. Place joined the Company in

order that the number required by law might be
secured, so as to enable them to proceed with
the election of officers. He never served as an
active member.

Lucius F. Pease, Painter, enlisted Novem-
ber 20th, 1851. Mr. Pease well and faithfully
performed ihe duties required of him as a mem-
ber of the DeWitt Guard for the full term of his
enlistment, (seven years,) and was granted an
honorable discharge. He is still living in Ith-
aca, an industrious mechanic, and a good citizen.

Christopher Whaley, Druggist, enlisted
November 21, 1851. Was discharged on Sur-
geon's certificate soon after his enlistment.

William Glenny, Clerk, enlisted November
21st, 1851. December 31st was elected fourth
Corporal ; March 3d, 1853, was elected Secre-
tary, which office he most creditably filled, as the
records of the Company show, up to January,
1857 ; was elected fourth Sergeant Jan. 14th,
1857 ; May 17th, 18(31, second Sergeant, which
office he held at the time of his enlistment in the
United States army.

The subject of this sketch reflects great credit

DeWitt Guard. 15

upon the Company to which he formerly be-
longed, and in the perilous hour honored his
constituency, as well as himself, to a degree un-
paralelled in the history of the Rebellion.
Having in his former life been a warm and ar-
dent supporter of the inalienable rights of man,
and an exponent of a free government, the first
attempt by traitors to destroy its fair fabric,
bought by the blood of our fathers, and to tram-
ple under foot the time-honored and beloved em-
blem of our free and independent nationality, so
enraged his sense of right and justice, that he
at once expressed his determination to fulfill his
public declarations to the effect, that when trai-
tors should thrust the bayonet at the nation's
life, he would be found among those who were
willing to peril their lives in its defence.

Being met with opposition and the remon-
strance of friends, that there were single men,
and those more inured to hardship, sufficient for
the emergency, whose duty it was to go first, his
plans were for a time delayed, and until a sec-
ond or third reverse of our arms, when he could
no longer be restrained, went earnestly at work,
and by his persistent efforts succeeded in raising
a suflicicnt number of volunteers for the basis of

16 History of the

a Company; which, by authority of the command-
ant of the Elmira rendezvous, in accordance with
orders from the Adjutant General of the State,
was organized at Ithaca Sept. 10th, 1861, and
by him conducted to Elmira, where, by a unani-
mous vote of the Company, he was elected its
Captain, and so commissioned by Gov. Seymour,
commission bearing date Sept. 13th, 1861.

Captain Glenny then went earnestly at work
and recruited his Company to the minimum
standard, and by vote of its members united its
destinies with the 64th Regiment N. Y. Volun-
teers, commanded by Col. Thomas J. Parker.

On the 10th of December the Regiment moved
to Washington, and a month later crossed the
Potomac and camped Avith the main army three
miles west of Alexandria, and was brigaded un-
der General 0. 0. Howard, who commanded
the first Brigade, first Division, second Corps.
Early in the spring of 1862, the Brigade moved
one week in advance of the main army for the
purpose of repairing the Orange & Alexandria
Railroad. A short distance beyond Fairfax
Station signs of the enemy were discovered, and
for safety to the command, two Companies from
the 64th, under command of Captain Glenny,

DeWitt Guard. IT

(his own being one of the number) were sent
gome considerable distance to the front as an
extreme outpost. Here the first blood of the
opening campaign was drawn by shooting a
rebel scout by one of Captain Glenny's men.

The main army soon after advanced to the fa-
mous fields of Manassas, but only to find the en-
emy beating a hasty retreat, leaving every con-
ceivable ruin in their track.

At this juncture the army changed its base to
the Peninsula and Chickahominy swamps, where,
after the siege of Yorktown, and on the first of
June, was fought the terrific battle of Fair Oaks,
in which Captain Glenny, while leading his men
in a charge, received a wound, whii h, for a time,
was thought to be mortal, a minnie ball passing
througli his left shoulder.

In about two months he again returned to his
command, but so disabled that he was detached
on recruiting service and stationed at Elmira :
after which he returned to the array, and after
nearly another year's campaign, was, in accord-
ance with orders, again detached at Elmira on
service connected with the draff. After beiuir
relieved from this duty, lie rejoined his command,
with which he served until tlie close of the war.

18 History of the

Owing to circumstances beyond his control,
he served near two and a half years as Captain
without promotion, after which in rapid succes-
sion he received the different grades of Major,
Lieut. Colonel and Colonel, but was unable to
niiuster into the latter grade by reason of insuf-
ficiency of numbers in the Regiment. This was,
however, in part recompensed for, as after the
smoke of battle and the clash of arms had ceased,
and honors were conferred upon " whom honor
was due,'' Captain Glenny had two grades by
brevet conferred upon him by the President, that
of Brevet Colonel and Brevet Brigadier Gener-
al, for gallant and meritorious services — honors
which he modestly and unassumingly wears, but
of which he may justly be proud.

From the time of his entry into the service
until the close of the war, near four 'years, (ex-
cept w^hile suffering from wounds and on detach-
ed service,) General Glenny fought traitors with
unrelenting fidelity to principle and the inalien-
able rights of man.

The number of decisive battles of which, he
may claim to be hero, and in which he had the
honor to bare his breast to the bayonet and bul-
let, are twenty-two ; six of them being, bayonet

DeWitt Guard. 1^

charges and direct assaults upon the enemy and
their fortifications. Among the principal of
these battles may be placed Fair Oaks, Chan-
cellorville, Gettysburg, Po River, Wilderness,
Spottsylvania, Coal Harbor, Deep Bottom, Pe-
tersburg, Gravelly Run, Southside Road, Farm-
ville. Reams Station, &g. The Regiment fought
in upwards of thirty- three. General Glenny's
superior officers being wounded, he was invest-
ed with the command of the Reginient on the
battle-field of Spottsylvania, which command he
retained until the close of the war, except at dif-
ferent periods, by seniority of rank, he command-
ed a Brigade. At the battle of Ream's Station
he took command of the Brigade which he re-
tained for some considerable time, as so fierce
had been the campaign that but one other field
officer was left for duty in the Brigade compris-
ing seven Regiments. Had we time and space,
many acts of personal bravery and valorous
deeds might be accredited to this officer during
his brief career of v/arfare, as owing to his known
integrity of character and ability, superior offi-
cers frequently selected him to fill posts of great
danger.

General Glenny's command has the honor of

20 HlSTOllY OF THE

being the first infantry troops upon the South-
side Railroad, also of making the last charge
upon the enemy at Farmville, April 7th, 1865.

Tayo or three circumstances of peculiar inter-
est, showing the morals of this officer, may not
be inappropriate, and in a degree indicate his
decision of character and fidelity to his untar-
nished reputation and walks of private life.

In the latter part of May, 1862, and just prior
to the battle of Fair Oaks, by orders of General
McClellan, the first ration of whiskey was is-
sued to the troops. This being incompatible
with the principles of General Glenny, he at
once called his men in line, and stated that he
believed the new element just introduced in the
army was destructive of its best interests, preju-
dicial to its health, efficiency and discipline, and
rathef" than stultify his conscience by being re-
sponsible for its issue, he would suffer himself to
be cashiered for disobedience of orders. His
position having been defined, the question was
submitted to the Company, which, by a unani-
mous vote, rejected the whiskey. During the
day General Howard, who by some means had
become acquainted with the facts, at once dis-
patched one of his aids with a book, his compli-

DeWitt Guard. 21

meiits and a message, to General Glennj-, to tlie
effect that he was the only officer in the Brigade
who had taken that position, and was gratified
to know he had one under his command who had
sufficient moral courage to take so exalted a
stand.

At Chancellorville, where the Union army met
with temporary defeat, this Regiment made one
of the most gallant stands of any during the war.
It held its position and repulsed five successive
charges made by the enemy under cover of their
artillery. The enemy, a few minutes later, suc-
ceeded in turning the right of our lines, when
orders were sent to General Glenny to withdraw
liis men immediately, which he did successfully
under a galling fire, and just as the enemy were
closing in upon him from front and rear in the
form of a pair of shears.

Again at Po River, the Regiment was hastih^
thrown out as a skirmish line. Owing to emer-
gencies the main army were obliged to change
position so suddenly, that there was no time to
withdraw or notify the skirmish line of their
perilous position ; and the only alternative was
to leave them to their fate. It was not until
some two liours later, wlien mistrusting all was

O')

History of the

not right, and finding the main army had left
the position a few hours previously taken up, it
was decided at once to make desperate efforts
to extricate the Regiment, which was found to
be surrounded on three sides, and the fourth fast
closing in, which was accomplished with but
slight loss. This was a prominent trait in Gen-
eral Glenny's character, to always hazard life
rather than be a prisoner in the hands of trai-
tors, whom he looked upon with contempt and
scorn.

In the last charge made by the Regiment, or
any of the army, at Farmville, April 7th, 1865,
General Glenny lost fourteen men, and one offi-
cer of the rank of Captain. The latter finding
himself mortally wounded, and having been ra-
ther a reckless young man, at once became
alarmed with reference to his future state.
While lying on the field, he called General Glen-
ny, (then Colonel,) took him by the hand, and
as soon as he could gather sufficient strength to
speak, says, " Colonel, can you pray ?" When
answered in the affirmative he said, " I have got
to die and am unprepared.'"' In compliance with
his request. General Glenny knelt by his side in
prayer ; but as missiles of death were flying on

DeWitt Guard. 2B

every hand, and the enemy opening an increas-
ing fire, which required him to watch as well as
pray, and to attend to the living as well as the
dying, he at once ordered the Captain carried
to the rear, where he soon died, leaving good
evidence that he had found spiritual relief.

This was the closing drama of the war, as two
days after General Lee surrendered the rebel
army of Northern Virginia to General Grant.
The Union army soon after returned to Wash-
ington and vicinity, where, by different com-
mands, thoy were mustered out of service. The
64th proceeded to Elmira, where it received final
pay and discharge July 24th, 1865. Thus end-
ed near four years of warfare with General
Glenny ; he being the only ofiicer who went out
as such who returned with the Regiment.

The General is now engaged in the mercantile
trade, and located in the store formerly occupied
by John Kendall, Esq., and is carrying on a very
successful and profitable trade.

Stephen Brewer, Saddles, Harness, &c., en-
listed November 21st, 1851. Mr. Brewer was a
good soldier ; his membership with the Compa-
ny was soon dissolved by his removal to Cort-
land village, where, like his professional broth-

24 History of the

er Millspaiigb, he has held many offices of trust
and honor, among which was County Judge of
Cortland county.

F. K. Andrus, Bookseller, &c., enlisted No-
Ycmber 21st, 1851. Mr, Andrus has answered
to his name as fourth, third, second and first
Corporal, and fifth, fourth, third and second
Sergeants. Was one of the most active mem-
bers of the Company during the whole seven
years, and over, of his membership. We find
but very few meetings or drills of the Company
that he is not marked present. He was a tho-
rough soldier, never satisfied with half knowing
how. His motto was, "Excelsior." No mem-
ber who served while Sergeant Andrus was con-
nected with the Company, will ever forget him ;
always good-natured and cheerful, inclined to
look on the bright and never on the dark side
of the picture ; and during times in the history
of the Company, when many were despondent,
and the future looked any thing but encouraging^
he was always with a cheerful heart and a ready
hand, willing to contribute in whatever way was
necessary to raise the standard of the Company;
and we believe whatever be undertook he suc-
ceeded in accomplishing. Mr. Andrus is now

DeWitt Guard. 25

one of the firm ol Anclrus, McChain & Co., prob-
ably the largest Paper Manufacturers in West-
ern New York ; and very many of our citizens
and distinguished visitors from abroad, can testi-
fy to his politeness and urbanity in showing them
through their large manufactory at Fall Creek.

Charles Clapp, Painter, enlisted November
21st, 1851. Mr. Clapp, at his own request, was
granted a discharge soon after his enlistment.
His military ardor was in no degree dampened,
however, as will be seen from the following :
He enlisted in the United States army December
30th, 1863, in Company M, 21st New York Cav-
alry, in which he served eighteen months ; was
engaged in the battle of New Market, and in the
reserve at Cedar Creek. Mr. Clapp also had
two sons in the army. He was particularly dis-
tinguished for his Good Samaritan kindness, as
many of his comrades can testify. Having some
knowledge of medicine, he imparted the all-heal-
ing balm to those about him who were sick or
wounded.

E. C. Fuller, Painter, enlisted November
21st, 1851 . He filled the offices of Corporal and
Sergeant ; was a good soldier, a faithful officer,
and a skilled artisan.

26 HiSTOEY OF THE

William Y . Bruyn, Lawyer, enlisted Novem-
ber 21st, 1851. Immediately upon his joining
the Company he was elected first Lieutenant,
which commission he held until his removal to
Syracuse. He was a man of talents and fine ac-
complishments, which, combined with his gentle-
manly bearing, made an officer of which the
Company were at all times proud. He was once
District Attorney of Tompkins county, and is
now engaged in his profession in the city of Syr-
acuse, where he meets with that success he so
richly merits.

LoREN Day, wholesale Liquor dealer, enlist-
ed November 21st, 1851. Mr. Day, we believe,
never served as a member but a short time, if at
all. His connection, however, with this or any
other institution, would be an honor to it. He
is one of the most quiet, still one of the best, cit-
izens of our village. He has been very success-
ful in business, which may be credited to his
strict attention and uncompromising honesty.

William M. Culver, dealer in Hats, Caps
and Furs, enlisted November 22d, 1851. Served
but a short time, a worthy member, and was hon-
orably discharged. He is still successfully en-
gaged in the above business.

DeWitt Guard. 27

Theodore A. Hanmer, Clerk, enlisted No-
vember 24th, 1851. Yery soon after enlistment
he removed to a Southern State, where he still
resides.

Philip J. Partenheimer, Cashier Tompkins
County Bank, enlisted November 25th, 1851.
We often hear it said there is no man but has
his enemies ; this may be the rule, we will pro-
duce the exception.

At the first election of Company A, -lield in
December, 1851, Mr. Partenheimer was unani-
mously elected their Captain, which commission
he held until August 25th, 1862 — over ten years.
Nearly two hundred men served under him while
Captain of this Company, by each of which he
was not only respected and honored as their
commanding officer, but as a citizen and gentle-
man. Few officers ever had the confidence, re-
spect and esteem of his command as did Captain
Partenheimer. Yery likely some were at times
dissatisfied with his rulings ; soon, however, his
sound judgment was apparent, and his decisions
perfectly satisfactory to all. When necessary
he was stern, but always kind and forgiving.
When he gave a command, his men knew it must
be promptly and correctly executed. His gen-

28 History of the •

erosity was only exceeded (so far as bis Compa-
ny was concerned) by his desire to have his gifts
unknown to the members or others, and if it
could be known how much he had paid for the
use and improvement of his Company, a very
considerable sum could be added to the amount
of disbursements spoken of in the preface of this
record.

Captain Partenheimer's first business engage-
ment was with S. B. Munu, Jr., of this village.
His clerkship was of short duration, however,
as his superior talent as an accountant was soon
displayed, and he made his second engagement
with the Tompkins County Bank as book-keeper.
With this situation the same remarks are appli-
cable as to the clerkship ; he was soon promo-
ted to the position of Teller of the same institu-
tion, and later to Cashier, which office he still
holds. His various and rapid promotions in the
Bank were not equal, however, to the demands
made upon him by his fellow citizens. To show
his popularity, we mention some of the civil of-
fices he has filled : Town Clerk, Notary Public,
Trustee of the village, President of same repeat-
edly. Chief Engineer of the Fire Department for
many years in succession, and also served his

DeWitt Guard. 29

town, in the Board of Supervisors of Tompkins
county. Eacli of the above mentioned offices he
has filled with* honor to himself, and for us to
say with satisfaction to the people, would be su-
perfluous. It is worthy of note, that Captain
Partenheimer never was ambitious for office ;
that all the offices he has tilled, both civil and
military, have been thrust upon ]iim ; and it is
proverbial in his case, that he has in the most
positive and peremptory manner, declined many
honors that the communitv have endeavored to
heap upon him. He is, most emphatically, a
self-made man : and to his own personal exer-
tions the public are indebted for a man of sterl-
ing worth and vast usefulness.

PHiLir Stephens, Butclier, enlisted Novem-
ber 25th, 1851. Mr. Stephens was one of the
best soldiers of the DeWitt Guard ; and not only
this, but one of the most valuable men for the
Company. He would allow nothing to prevent
his attendance at the drills and meetings, where
he always took an active part, as he also did in
the general welfare of the Company. His purse
was always open to contribute to any object
that had in view the advancement of the insti-
tution. He creditably filled most of the non-

30 History of the

commissioned offices ; enjoyed being a soldier,
and the Company enjoyed liim as such. Mr.
Stephens has been very successful in his business
enterprises, and has built up a reputation
throughout the State. The epicure of New York
city as well as Chicago, satisfies his taste with
luxuries provided by Stephens in the way of
choice meats. Mr. Stephens has recently pur-
chased one of the most beautiful building sites
in our village, and intends soon building a hand-
some and capacious dwelling.

A. Phillips, Merchant Tailor, enlisted No-
vember 25th, 1851. Mr. Phillips remained with
the Company but a short time, and upon his re-
tiring therefrom, presented them with a new uni-
form complete. It has always been the pleasure
of Mr. Phillips to lend his influence for the ben-
efit of the Company, and has furnished in the
person of his son a most worthy and valuable
member.

John S. YanLiew, Clerk, enlisted November
29th, 1851. Removed from the district soon af-
ter joining tlie Company.

A. Gr. Thompson, enlisted November 29th,
1851. With the history of Mr. Thompson the
writer is not acquainted.

DeWitt Guard, 31

John Randolph, Mason, enlisted December
1st, 1851. Was an excellent member for some
years ; his tall and commanding form, his pre-
cise and measured step and general bearing, fit-
ted him for a first-class soldier. He removed to
Michigan about 1858. Joining a Michigan Reg-
iment, he entered the United States army in
1861 ; was commissioned as Captain soon after
his enlistment, and for meritorious conduct was
promoted to Major. He was a brave soldier
and a courageous officer. He died soon after
honorably serving the time of his enlistment,
from disease contracted while in the service.

We copy the following to show the esteem in
which he was held by his command :

"Miner's IIill, Va., November ISth, 1861.

We, the undersigned, members of Company D, (Barry
Guard,) 4tli Michigan Volunteers, in testimon^^ of our high
appreciation of our beloved Captain, John Randolph, for his
uniform urbanity to, and kind treatment of, his Company,
and for his ability as an officer, do hereby present him with
the accompanjung slight memento of our highest regard.

J. N. Hall, E. S. Baldwin, G. G. Movrry, and ninety-seven
other members of the Company."

SPEECH OF MAJOR BAUUY.

"Captain Randolph: I have been commissioned by the
members of Company D, (Barry Guard,) under your com-
mand, to present you in their behalf this beautiful sword and

32 History of the

belt, in testimony of their high appreciation of j^our uniform
urbanity to, and kind treatment of, }■ our Company, and of
your ability as an officer.

While I feel honored in beuig the medium of communica-
tion between the Company (which, among all others, possess-
es my highest affection) and yourself, I can refer with pride
to this testimonial as conclusive evidence, not only of your
high qualities as an officer, but also the kindness o f your
heart.

Captain, I commit this sword to your keepins: in confidence,
that possessing those qualities as an officer and a man, you
will never suffer it to be dishonored."

RESPONSE OF CAPTAIN EANDOLPU.

"Major Barry: No words that I may speak can express
my feelings on this occasion. But a few days ago I left be-
hind me a brave band of tried and true men, whose warm ex-
pressions of concern for my safety and speedy return scarce-
ly die away in the distance, ere I am followed by a more sub-
stantial token of their esteem for me, and kindness of heart,
in the shape of this beautiful sword. Coming, as it does, un-
expectedly and in so delicate a way, it is not a wonder that
. my eye should express a feeling that is foreign to my heart.
We are bound together in a brotherhood, by ties more bind-
ing and endearing than those which make up friendship in
civil life. With the same old flag floating over us, sharing a
common and imminent danger perpetually about us, with the
thousand other incidental and reciprocal acts of courtesy at-
tending well ordered camp-lifo, it would be strange if we did
not become brothers in feeling, as well as in action. As I
felt a gladness a few days ago, when departing from camp
on a short furlough to visit my many friends here, so noAv on

DeWitt Guard. 33

returning I feel my heart bound at the thought that I shall
soon hear the cheers of comrads, and feel the warm grasp of
their stout hands. We have ever remembered and looked
upon you, Major Barry, as tlie father of our Company, and
feel proud that we bear the name of the Barry Guard. When
the boom of the gun of treason first rolled through the land,
and the harsh voice of actual war broke upon the startled
ears of our peaceful and happy peoi-)le, your voice called us
together, gave our zeal direction, and cooled our excitement
to concentrated action ; and not one of us will ever cease to
regret that other duties prevented your accompanying us in
a cause we all know has your whole heart and sympathy.
This splendid gift, then, comes to me -s\ith double effect. It
is like the donation of brothers tendered by the hand of a fa-
ther, and so I receive it. And I here swear never to dishon-
or the blade nor disgrace the donors, but whenever I can
strike a blow for the right, for our cause, for our flag and the
Union, it shall leap from the scabbard, and God helpiiig me,
shall not be again sheathed while this right arm can strike a
blow, or victory remains uncertain."

Sherman K. Hall, Grocer, enlisted Decem-
ber 2d, 1851. Remained with the Company
but a short time.

William 0. Bryan, Shoemaker, enlisted De-
cember 2d, 1851. Removed from town very
soon after enlistment ; is now engaged in the
Drug and Medicine trade of the West.

F. A. Partenheimer, proprietor of the "Con-
tinental Boot and Shoe Store." A strong de-

2^

34 History of the

sire to become a military gentleman led Mr.
Partenheimer to enlist in the militia of tlio
State, which he did January 1st, 1852, when he
found that he possessed all the proper qualifica-
tions of a good soldier. Undoubtedly, however,
these necessary qualifications were more appa-
rent to others than himself, as he was soon elec-
ted Corporal, from which he was promoted to
Sergeant, and most worthily did he fill his of-
fice, until having served his seven years he was
granted an honorable discharge. Our sincere
regrets are extended to any Company which
does not number among its members at least one
man like Sergeant Partenheimer. A more true
and devoted soldier never existed; but upon him
nature had bestowed a great deal more than the
ordinary amount of original wit ; and at times,
when not on duty, our Sergeant would furnish
innocent fun for a Regiment. At Camp Burnett,
Sept. 1859, he was the life of the camp, and many
of his jokes are not, to this day, forgotten.

It gives us pleasure to state, that now Mr.
Partenheimer is sole proprietor of one of our
most successful and enterprising Boot and Shoe
manufactories, and is receiving that portion of
public patronage which he merits.

DeWitt Guard. 35

Charles F. Blood, Merchant Tailor, enlist-
ed January 1st, 1852. In joining this Compa-
ny, Mr. Blood's iirst and greatest ambition was
to become a thorough soldier, which object he
successfully accomplished we shall proceed to
show.

Very soon after becoming a member of the
Company, he was elected their standard-bearer.
His strong desire to become familiar with all
the rudiments, and to become perfect, not only
in the scliool of the soldier, but also of the Com-
pany and Battalion, led him to devote but little
time to the duties of his new office. So anxious
was he to learn, that with the Tactics for his
drill-master, and a borrowed gun for an assist-
ant, he would by himself combine the theoretical
with the practical. We say without fear of
contradiction, that to-day a man more conver-
sant with the thiCory and practice of the science
of military, cannot be found.

The 28th of May, 1856, he was elected and
commissioned second Lieutenant, wliich office ho
filled until August 25th, 1862, at which time he
was elected Captain. As a commanding officer
Captain Blood could not be excelled. The time
he had so studiously devoted in the earlier part

36 History of the

of his military career to this object, he no^Y dis-
covered was of great use to him. Combine with
this knowledge his splendid voice and fine mili-
tary carriage, he was an ofScer of which his men
were at all times proud.

When the Company volunteered and were
mustered into the United States service, Captain
Blood accompanied them ; and through his ex-
ertions they obtained a very desirable position
in the 58th Regiment National Guard. It was
his chief and constant aim to see that his men
were at all times comfortable, and to see that
they, as United States soldiers, had all they were
entitled to.

Very soon after joining the army, Captain
Blood was detailed from his Company and com-
missioned one of the court-martial of the De-
partment of New York, before which court was
transacted a large amount of business. The
compliments that were bestowed upon Captain
Blood as a member of this court, by the Division
and Post Commanders, and by other members
of the court, must, indeed, have been very flat-
tering to him. In his decisions (not one of which
were ever set aside or annulled) he was prompt
and discriminating, always tempering his judg-

DeWitt Guard. 37

ment with that amount of clemency which lie
considered was best for the Government he rep-
resented, and for the unfortunate delinquents
who appeared before him.

Notwithstanding- he was so much of che time
seperated from his command, still he endeavored
to be in camp with them every night, and a large
portion of the time messed with them.

Captain Blood, as evciy person knows who
is acquainted with him, was a strictly conscien-
tious man, and still he ahvays enjoyed the sports
and harmless amusements of his men in camp,
and at all proper times and occasions would join
with them. It is needless for us to say, that
each member of his Company became very much
attached to him, not one of which but would,
have sacrificed their all for his comfort.

His door was always open and he was at all
times glad to sec his men, and his tent was Com-
pany Head-Quarters indeed. It was the remark
of very many ofScers and otiiers who visited El-
raira during encampment of this Company, that
Captain Blood was the most accomplished offi-
cer, and commanded the best Company of men,
that assisted in garrisoning that post during tho
war.

38 History of the

The Captain always attended the religious
services of the Regiment, and by tiiis means ex-
erted a beneficial influence over his men. His
example was always that of an uncompromising
christian, as well as a good soldier and true
patriot.

Immediately following the Elmira campaign,
Captain Blood was elected and commisioned
Lieutenant Colonel of the 50th Regiment Na-
tional Guard, and now holds that commission.

In this instance we see a private of Company
A, by various promotions, reach the rank second
in command of the Regiment, and undoubtedly
in a short time will be in full command. No
officer is more worthy the honor than Colonel
Blood.

In civil life lie is none the less honored, hav-
ing filled public ofiices with equal success.

He has been not only a good soldier, a re-
spected Lieutenant, honored Captain and es-
teemed Colonel, but is a citizen of the highest
standing and respected by every one.

H. J. Wilson, Painter, enlisted January 1st,
1852. Mr. Wilson served liis fall time and re-
ceived an honorable discliargc as a soldier, l)ut
is still connected with the Reu'imcnt as a musi-

DeWitt Guard. 39

cian. It is the strong desire of every member
of the Company, as well as of the Regiment,
that his membership may be continued yet many
years. Our excellent Band, without Wilson,
w^ould be like tinkling brass — of uncertain
sound. The rich, full and expressive tones ren-
dered by him on his powerful Tuba, fully prove
him to be a musician of no ordinary talent.

Jacob Sager, Clerk, enlisted January 1st,
1852. Was Company musician, which position
he tilled until his removal from the District.
He was not only a good musician, but a gentle-
man.

Clark Wilson, Machinist, enlisted January

, 1852. Mr. Wilson was Company drummer

for a lime, but preferring a gun to a drum, took
his place in tlie ranks ; served some time ; is
now Chief Engineer on Seneca Lake.

Horace Root, Brewer, enlisted March 17th,
1852. Mr. Root was always promptly on hand
at the drills and meetings of the Company while
a m.ember. The record does not show how long
he was connected with the Company ; our re-
collection is some three years.

Caleb Babcock, enlisted March ITtli, 1852.
His membership was short ; very soon after be-

40 History of the

coming a member he left the place. He is now
an officer on one of the New York and Liver-
pool Line of Steamers.

A. J. Terry, Tobacconist, enlisted May 15th,
1852. Mr. Terry was a good member of the
Company and a good citizen. He died a few
years ago, after suffering the most excrutiating
torture of acute rheumatism.

James C. McClune, Lawyer, enlisted June
3d, 1852. Mr. McClune always evinced the
greatest interest in the welfare of the Compa-
ny ; he was one of its best workers, was a first-
class soldier, and was soon elected Corporal
from which he was promoted to Sergeant, which
office he held until November 29th, 1856, when
he was removed by death. Upon receiving in-
telligence of his death a special meeting was
called, when the following preamble and resolu-
tions, offered by Lieut. King, were unanimously
adopted :

Whereas, The Supreme Ruler of the Universe has, in the
exercise of His power and wisdom, seen fit to remore from
our midst our esteemed friend and fellow soldier, Sergeant
James C. McClune, therefore be it

Resolved, That we receive the sad bereavement as a man-
date from Him who doeth all things well.

Eesolvcd, That we offer our sincere and heartfelt condolence

DeWitt Guard. 41

to the sorrowing family of the deceased, and we assure them
that we will ever revere the memory of their son and brother.

Resolved, That as a mark of onr respect for the character
of onr deceased corarad, we will attend his funeral, and escort
his remains to their last resting place with military honors.

Resolved, That we wear the usual badge of mourning for
the space of six months.

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, signed by the
Chairman and Secretary, be presented to the family of the
deceased, and published in the village papers.

P. J. Partexiieimer, Captain.

William Glenxy, Sec'i/.

James H. Greenly, Merchant, enlisted June
3d, 1852. Mr. Greenly was in every respect a
most estimable man, and as a soldier he had no
superior. Always manifested a lively interest
in whatever conduced to the benefit of the or-
ganization. He filled all the grades of non-
commissioned offices ; was Orderly Sergeant at
the time he removed from us. No member ever
left, carrying with him more well wishes and
kind regards, than Sergeant James H, Greenly.
Success and prosperity attend him ever in all
his undertakings.

Jacob Warshaski, Clothing Merchant, en-
listed July 1st, 1852. Was a faithful and wor-
thy member for a few years. Upon changing his
residence was granted an honorable discharge.

42 History of the

Major A. 0. Shaw, Blacksmith. To name
a day as the one on which the Major enlisted, is
for us an impossibility, and we think it would
be too much of a task for him, even, to find out
the exact year, say nothing about the day. Suf-
fice it to say, he lias been honored with the title
of Major from the earliest recollection of the
writer. He has seen the time when he had com-
mand of more musicians alone than this Compa-
ny at any one time ever numbered as members.
He always enjoyed being a military man, and
we believe there could be no greater pleasure
for the Major to-day, than to head*a column of
a few hundred men and march through the
streets of Ithaca, as he has done in years gone
by. He has received three honorable dischar-
ges, each being granted by reason of the expira-
tion of his term of service. This would give the
Major twenty-one years in the service, and how
much he overran on time on each of the dischar-
ges, we doubt if he knows. At all events he
was a member of the DeWitt Guard when the
writer joined, (which was in 1855,) and served
until last year before he received his last dis-
cliarge.

He has always been, and is to-day, one of the

DeWitt Guard. 43

most accommodating military men of our ac-
quaintance. At any time the Company would
like to have him turn out with them, he is al-
ways ready, and invariably refuses a single dime
compensation. The Major has the respect, not
only of the Company with which he has so long
served, but of the whole community. As a citi-
zen, his politeness and gentlemanly conduct at-
tracts the attention of every person who meets
him ; and the various positions he has so long
and creditably filled, is sufficient to show that
he is properly appreciated by the community in
which he resides.

Moses R. Wright, Lawyer, enlisted July
8th, 1852. Was connected with the Company
but a short time ; was a man of fine talent, and
a lawyer of great ability. He died in this vil-
lage June 6th, 1855.

L. S. Blue, Boot and Shoe Merchant, enlist-
ed July 8th, 1852. Mr. Blue served but a short
time. Is now a resident of New York city.

John Page, Shoemaker, enlisted July 12th,

1852. His membership was short.

D. M. Oltz, Carpenter, enlisted June 28d,

1853. Was a good soldier and a good member
of the Company ; served for some time. His

4:4: History of the

membership was dissolved by his removal to
Canada.

J. B. Hammond, Jeweler, enlisted June 23d,
1853. Served faithfully as Company bugler un-
til his removal to St. Louis.

Melville Wilkinson, Clerk, enlisted July
4th, 1853. Was a good soldier while connected
with the Company, and a better one after leav-
ing it. He removed from the district after a
membership of one or two years. Upon the
breaking out of the war he enlisted in the 23d
New York Volunteers ; was soon commissioned
Lieutenant ; served his time ; volunteered the
second time, and was elected Captain in the
107th New York Volunteers. He was a brave
and true officer ; was engaged in many battles ;
was transferred to the Veteran Eeserve Corps ;
afterwards held a prominent position upon the
staff of General Coxe, who commanded the De-
partment of Ohio. At the close of the war he
devoted his time to preparing himself for the
ministry, and is now an Episcopal clergyman,
located in Oliio.

Thomas J. Phillips, Miller. (Date of en-
listment not recorded.) Mr. Phillips was no or-
dinary soldier, as he most conclusively proved

DeWitt Guard. 45

to a Bank President at the Seneca Falls en-
campmoiit. He was always careful to know
what his duty was, and then he was going to do
it, let the consequences be what they might.
He was always good natured, perfectly happy,
and was poor society for those troubled with the
hlues. Never wanted much to do with a person
who did not feel as good as himself. AVas worth
at the encampment spoken of above^ more than
some whole Companies. Had the advantages
of an early education and good bringing up, used
to living well at home, and believed in living
well in camp — and did. No person, although
he might be President of all the Banks in Hun-
gary, could pass the line when he was the sen-
tinel. He was athletic, not only in person but
in mind, and too much good cannot bo said of
him as a soldier and a citizen. The Company
sustained a severe loss when Mr. Phillips re-
moved from among them, and became the pro-
prietor of the Danby Spring Mills.

William H. Brown, Grocer, enlisted July
28th, 1853. Mr. Brown served his full time and
received an honorable discharge. He always
felt a deep interest in the welfare of the Compa-
ny ; particulai'ly prompt to meet all the de-

46 History of the

mands made upon him ; always gave cheerfully,
and has in many instances paid for others who
could illy afibrd to pay for themselves ; was al-
ways careful to have no one know that he paid
obligations other than his own ; always pres-
ent at the drills and meetings of the Company,
and altogether Mr. Brown was one of the solid
men of the Company. He has acted as Compa-
ny Sutler «tt a number of encampments, and in
this capacity has given the most perfect satisfac-
tion.

Leonard Stoddard, Carriage Maker, enlist-
ed July 28th, 1853. His membership was short
—removing from tlie district soon after joining.
He was employed in the extensive establishment
of William S. Hoyt, Esq., the largest carriage
manufacturer in Western New York.

Samuel Stoddard, Wool and Leather Mer-
chant, enlisted June 29th, 1854.

In the DeWitt Guard, as well as in every oth-
er organization or association vrith whicli Mr.
Stoddard has been connected, he was, as he
would term his best grade of wool, super extra.
He was an old militiaman when he joined this
Company, and had improved all the advantages
to be derived from tlie Old Cfunrd, which in an

DeWitt Guard. 47

eminent degree qualified him for a good soldier
in this, then new, Company. A peculiar trait
in the military character of Mr. Stoddard was,
he invariably attended the drills and meetings
of the Company. Consider, with this fact, the
large business carried on by him, which one
would suppose would require his undivided time
and attention, and we find he must have sacri-
ficed a good deal for the interest he felt in tliis
Company. He would forego other enjoyments
for the sake of attending the weekly drills in
which he took much pleasure, believing that this
exorcise w^as of vast good to him. He became
a very proficient soldier ; never would accept
office of any kind, though besought with tears ;
his highest ambition was to be a good high pri-
vate ; was one of the most liberal men in the
Company, always contributing freely, and many
times more than his proportion ; was always in
favor of paying promptly any demand made up-
on the Company, and opposed to obligations or
debts accumulating against them, and we find it
recorded in two or three instances where Mr.
Stoddard moved that a tax of two or more dol-
lars be levied upon each member to pay up defi-
cits. He server! his full time and was Q:ranted

48 History of the

an honorable discharge. For the high standing
of the DeWitt Guard to-day, they are in no small
degree indebted to Mr. Stoddard. He has en-
joyed the confidence of the community sufficient
to be elected several times to positions of trust
and honor. Long live Samuel Stoddard.

D. L. Avery, Merchant, enlisted June 24th,
1854. Mr. Avery was a young man of fine at-
tainments, and had every promise of a brilliant
future. He manifested much interest in the
Company, and although connected with them
but a short time, yet sufficiently long to gain the
esteem and respect of each member. His death
occurred August 24th, 1854. That the loss of
Mr. Avery was keenly felt by the Company, the
following preamble and resolutions, which were
unanimously adopted, will show :

"Whereas, It has pleased Divine Providence suddenly to
take away from our midst by death our much esteemed friend
and fellow soldier D. L. Avery, thus depriving us of an ac-
tive and valued member, and our citizens of one whom but
to know was to esteem ; and "Whereas, The officers and sol-
diers of the DeWitt Guard feeling and duly ajjpreciating the
loss of our universally esteemed member of our corps, and
being desirous of giving expression to a spontaneous senti-
ment of regard for our departed brother in arms, it is there-
fore unanimously

Rcaolved, Tliat wo do most sincerely mourn the loss of our

DeWitt Guard. 49

late comrade, so suddenly and unexpectedly called away from
our ranks by the stern and unrftlenting- King of Terrors, and
that we tender to the partner, brother and sisters of the de-
ceased our heartfelt sympathies in their irreparable loss.

Resolved, That we attend in a body to assist in the last sad
duties and ceremonies of the funeral of our kte brothel, friend
and fellow soldier, and that we wear the usual badge of
mourning- on all parades for thirty days.

Resolved, That the proceedings be signed by our Captain,
and a copy thereof be furnished the relatives of the deceased,
and also for publication in the village papers.

P. J. Pahtenheimer, Capt, ConHd'g,
William Glenxy, Sec'y.

M. E. Elmendorp, Dentist, enlisted June 30th,
1854. Mr. Elmendorf was a first-class soldier
and a tip-top fellow generally. Was particu-
larly celebrated as a fine shot, taking a prize at
each of the target shoots while a member. Was
an active, energetic young man, and very readi-
ly became master of his profession, and is now a
Dental Surgeon of considerable note in the city
of New York. .

Lot S. Hinds, Currier, enlisted July 12th,
1854. Was a good, attentive soldier and a
faithful member ; served some years with the
Company ; removed from our village to Danby,
where he now resides. Has a son in the United
States army.

3

50 History of the

J. S. Putnam, Hotel keeper, enlisted July
12th, 1854. Was a resident but a short time.

Ira M. Gardner, Mason, enlisted September
18th, 1855. Mr. Gardner served faithfully his
seven years, and received an honorable dis-
charge. He has always resided in Ithaca, is a
good citizen, a respected man, and a first-class
mechanic.

William H. Hammond, Gas Plumber, en-
listed September 23d, 1855. Served his full
time and was honorably discharged. Held the
office of Company standard-bearer for some
years. Was also armory keeper, keeping the
guns and equippage in perfect order. We believe
the State honestly indebted to him for services
rendered, for which he ought to have his pay.

William Y. Brown, Currier, enlisted Sep-
tember 26th, 1855. Mr. Brown was celebrated
for the great amount of artistic and thoroughly
grand music as produced by himself on the base
drum. He was Company musician, and remained
with them as long as he was a citizen of the
place. He is now a resident of Union Springs.
^^Big Bill Broivn, the Drummer J^ will long be
remembered with gratitude by all those connec-
ted with the Company during his membership.

DeWitt Guard. 51

K. S. Van Voorhees, Master Mechanic, en-
listed July , 1854. Colonel VanYoorhees

entered the militia service of the State in Feb.,
1835, joining the first Company New York Ca-
dets, which was attached as a flank Company to
the 2d Eegiment N. Y. S. Artillery, (doing duty
as Infantry,) and known as the Governor's
Guard. In the spring of 1839 he was promo-
ted from Orderly Sergeant, and commissioned
as Captain of the Company by Gov. W. H. Sew-
ard, he having been unanimously elected to that
position by the members of the Company. In
the spring of 1840 he was presented with an el-
egant sword bearing the following inscription :

Presented to

CAPT. K. S. VAN VOORHEES,

By the First Company New York Cadets, as a Token of

Esteem and Respect.

New York, April 16th, 1840.

In the Fall of 1840 he visited Ithaca, and hav-
ing concluded to make this place his permanent
residence, he forwarded to New York his resig-
nation in the Spring of 1841. After his remo-
val to this place, he lent his assistance to the
drilling and instruction of the Old Ithaca Guard
until they were disbanded.

Upon the most urgent solicitations of both of-

52 History of the

ficers and men, he consented to become one of
the members of the DeWitt|Guard. He, posses-
sing probably the greatest amount of military
knowledge of any person in the district, was se-
cm-ed by the Company as instructor, and imme-
diately elected Orderly Sergeant. This he did
simply as an accommodation, having gained all
the military honors he cared to have bestowed
upon him before coming to Ithaca.

For us to bestow any compliments upon him
in this sketch is perfectly uncalled for, as we
produce the following record in place of further
refuarks :

At the breaking out of the Rebellion he was
prevented from entering the service of his coun-
try by a severe bodily injury which he had re-
ceived a few months before ; but in the Fall of
1862 he had so far recovered from his lameness,
that he ventured to accept the position of Lieu-
tenant Colonel of a Regiment then organizing
at Binghamton, N. Y., and afterwards known as
the. 137th New York Volunteers, to which posi-
tion he was chosen by the unanimous vote of
the War Committee of the 24th Senatorial Dis-
trict.

He immediately entered upon the duty, in con-

DeWitt Guard. - 53

iiection with Colonel David Ireland, of organi-
zing and disciplining the Regiment, and getting
it ready for active service in the field. The
want of any knowledge of military tactics by ei-
ther officers or men, rendered the labor of in-
structing and drilling the Regiment very ardu-
ous, the most of which was performed by Lt.
Col. YanYoorhees, Col. Ireland attending to
the administrative affairs of the Regiment.
Previous to the Regiment's leaving for the seat
of war, Lt. Col. YanYoorhees was presented by
his friends at Ithaca with a fine horse and set
of horse equipments. The Regiment was mus-
tered into the U. S. service on the 25th Septem-
ber, and left for Washington on the 27th, arriv-
ing there on the 30th, and were immediately for-
warded to Harper's Ferry, Ya., by way of Fred-
ericksburgh, Md.; arriving at Harper's Ferry
on the 3d October, where they remained until
the 10th December, having in the meantime
made two important reconnoisances under Gen.
Greo:2: — one to Charlestown and the other to

CO

Winchester, Ya.

On the 10th December the 12th Army Corps,
to which the 137th Regiment had been attached,
left Harper's Ferry at the time of Burnside's un-

54 History of the

successful attack on Fredericksburgli, and hav-
ing marched to Dumfries, Ya., were, in conse-
quence of Burnside's repulse, marched back to
Fairfax Station, where they remained until the
17th January, 1863, when they were again or-
dered forward, Burnside intending to make an-
other attack on Fredericksburgh, but failed on
account of the mud.

The 12th Corps having reached Stafford Court
House, the Brigade to which the 137th was at-
tached was ordered to Aquia Creek, where they
remained until the 26th April, when they com-
menced their march to Chancellorsville, which
they reached on the 29th of April. On the 30th
the 12th Corps was ordered forward to feel the
enemy's position, and finding them in strong-
force returned to camp, where they commenced
throwing up earthworks, the 137th using bayo-
nets for picks and tin plates for shovels. In the
subsequent battles the Regiment maintained its
position in the trenches until they were entered
by the enemy from the right, (the right flank of
the army having been turned by the giving way
of the 11th Corps,) when they were ordered to
retire, which they did in good order. As this
was the first battle in which the Regiment was

DeWitt Guard. 55

engaged, some anxiety was felt by the officers as
to the mettle of their men ; l)ut their conduct on
this occasion was such as to give no further un-
easiness. After the battle the Regiment return-
ed to Aquia Creek, where it remained until the
13th June, when it commenced its march to Get-
tysburg, and on the 2d and 3d July was closely
and hotly engaged with the invader.

Late in the afternoon of the 2d July the whole
of the 12th Corps, with the exception of Green's
Brigade, was sent to support the left of the line,
which was closely pressed ; they had scarcely
gone when Stonewall Jackson's old Corps, sev-
en thousand strong, under Ewell, charged our
right, which was defended by only Green's Brig-
ade of New York troops less than two thousand
strong ; but so obstinate was the defence, that
the enemy did not succeed in breaking our lines;
heavy firing was kept up nearly all night.
About four o'clock of the morning of the 3d, the
enemy again advanced to the charge but was
again repulsed, and a heavy and constant fire
was kept up until half past ten, when the enemy
retired. The loss of the 137th was four officers
and forty-one men killed, and three officers and
sixty -four men wounded. Lt. Col. VanYoor-

56 History op the

hees was slightly wounded twice during the
action.

After the battle and the escape of Lee's army
across the Potomac, the army again encamped
on the banks of the Rappahannock and after-
wards on the banks of the Rappidan, when, on
the 23d September, immediately after the battle
of Chickamauga, the 11th and 12th Corps under
Hooker were ordered to Tennessee, where they
arrived in the fore part of October. In the lat-
ter part of that month Hooker was ordered by
Grant to open communication between Bridg-
port, Ala., and Chattanooga, Tenn., by the way
of White Side, along the line of the Memphis
and Charleston Railroad. The army of the
Cumberland being besieged in Chattanooga and
destitute of provisions, it became necessary to
secure a shorter line of communication, or the
place would have to be abandoned with the loss
of all the artillery and trains, as there were no
animals left to draw them away. On the 28th
of October the 11th Corps under Gen. Howard,
followed by a part of Geary's Division of the
12th Corps, all under the command of Gen.
Hooker, debouched into Lookout Valley, and for
six miles marched in plain view of the rebels

DeWitt Guard. 57

who occupied the summit and sides of the moun-
tain, and who could ahnost count the men in the
ranks. On encamping for the night, the 11th
Corps was about two and a half miles in advance
of Geary's Division, which, being observed by
the enemy, they determined to surprise and cap-
ture Geary's Division ; and accordingly two
Divisions of Longstrcet's Corps were ordered to
the attack. They came in between the 11th
Corps and Geary's Division, and while one Di-
vision took up a position to prevent reinforce-
ments from being sent to Gen. Geary, the other
advanced to the attack, which came near being
a surprise, the attack being made about mid-
night. Gen. Geary had with him at the time
but four Regiments and two sections of a battery.
The 111th Pennsylvania succeeded in getting
into line, and the 137th New York were but
partly in line when the enemy opened fire upon
them at less than j&fty yards distance. These
two Regiments bore the whole brunt of the bat-
tle, which lasted over two hours ; the other two
Regiments were placed in position to protect the
right flank and rear, leaving the left flank ex-
posed. Early in the action Gen. Green, com-
manding the Brigade, was wounded, and Col.

3*

58 History of the

Ireland of the 137 Eegiment being senior Colo-
nel, the command of the Brigade devolved upon
him, leaving the command of the Regiment to
Lt. Col. VanYoorhces. The enemy finding the
left unprotected, moved a part of their force to
the left, and came down on the left and rear of
the 137th, but Col. YanYoorhees immediately
placed his three left Companies perpendicular
to the rear facing them to the left, and facing
the rear rank of four other Companies to the
rear, the Regiment kept up such a vigorous and
well directed fire to the front, flank and rear, as
finally to beat back the enemy and cause his re-
treat, though not till nearly every cartridge in
the Regiment was expended.

The 137th (who lost nearly one- third of their
number in killed and wounded) was highly com-
plimented for their coolness and courage in this
engagement. Gen. Geary in a speech delivered
to the Regiment at the time of its muster-out,
used the following language in regard to their
conduct on this occasion : " I have at all times
and in all places given you the credit of saving
my Division from rout or capture at Wauhatchie.
As I passed down your rear and observed the
vigorous attack that was made upon you, I ex-

DeWitt Guard. ' 59

claimed, * My God, if the 137th gives way all is
lost.' But thanks to the coolness, skill and
courage of your commanding officer, and to your
own determined will, you maintained your
ground nobly, and the enemy was driven back
to his mountain den."

Gen. Howard, in a speech at Piiiladelphia,
characterized this battle as '^ the v/onderful
night's revel at Wauhatchie ;" and the rebel pa-
pers and dispatches acknowledged a serious de-
feat and heavy loss. Col. YanYoorhees was
severely wounded during the action, but refused
to leave the field to have his wound dressed un-
til the action was over and all danger of its re-
newal had passed.

Col. YanYoorhees being at home recovering
from his wound, was not v/ith his Regiment in
their " battle above the clouds," in which it main-
tained its reputation, being the first to enter the
enemy's works upon Lookout Mountain. Col,
YanYoorhees rejoined his Regiment in January,
and led it in all the battles of the Atlanta cam-
paign, which commenced on the 2d day of May
and ended by the capture of Atlanta on the 2d
day of September, being four months of almost
continuous fighting. The first battle was that

60 History of the

of Mill Creek Gap, May 8tli, in which Geary's
Division drove the rebels into their works on
the summit of Taylor's Riclgo. The next was
the battle of Resacca, May 15th, in which the
Regiment lost several in wounded. The next
was the battle of Dallas, or New Hope Church,
on the 25th of May ; here Hooker's Corps lost
heavily. One line of the enemy's works was
carried just at night, and they driven about a
mile into a second line of works which vras not
carried owing to the darkness ; but a position
was taken and a line of works established with-
in a stone's throw of the enemy's line. The Reg-
iment remained here eight days under a constant
fire, and without any shelter from the weather.
On the 5th June the enemy was found to have
evacuated his works, and it was supposed had
crossed the Chattahoochie River ; the men need-
ing rest the enemy was not followed. The army
was moved forward a few miles and put into
camp for rest.

On the 7th June, Col. YanYoorhees being of-
ficer of the day and having charge of the picket
line, discovered the enemy's position ; their line
extending from Kenesaw Mountain to Lost
Mountain, a distance of eight miles. He made

DeWitt Guard. 61

a written report of the fact to Gen. Geary, who
immediately sent for him and discredited the re-
port, stating that he did not believe there was a
rebel soldier this side of the Chattahoochie ; he
however said he would send up the report. On
the 8th June Gen. Sherman telegraphed to the
Secretary of War that " his cavalry had that day
discovered the enemy's position, and that his
right rested on Kenesaw Mountain and his left
on Lost Mountain,'" thus confirming Col. Yan-
Voorhees' report made the day previous.

On the 15th June the Regiment was moved
forward to the foot of Pine Knob, (which was
occupied by the enemy,) where they threw up
works for the artillery who shelled the hill, one
result of wdiich was the killing of Gen. Polk of
the rebel army. On the same day the Division
moved forward to the attack of Pine Knob ; sev-
eral lines of rifle pits were carried, but the main
works were very formidable and w^re not car-
ried. A line of works were built the same night
within a hundred yards of the enemy's line, and
heavy skirmishing kept up on the 16th, and on
the morning of the 17th the enemy was found to
have evacuated his works. The Reo-iment lost
two killed and twenty wounded. The enemy

62 History of the

was immediately pursued and found in a new
position before noon of tlie same day. In ad-
vancing to support a battery the Kegiment lost
one man killed and one wounded. On the morn-
ing of the 19th the enemy was found to have
again abandoned his v/orks, but was found
strongly entrenched two miles to tlie rear.
From this time up to the oth July, when the en-
emy retreated across the Chattahoocliie, it was
one continued series of battles, skirmishes, and
clianges of position.

On the 22d June the 137th Regiment, in con-
nection with the 11 Ith Pennsylvania, were high-
ly complimented by Gen. Hooker for their bra-
very in obtaining possession of a commanding
position Y.'hich was strongly defended by the en-
emy.

No forward movement was made from tlie Tth
to the 17ih July, the army needing rest and
clothing ; but on the 17th it again moved for-
ward and crossed the Cbattahoochie River. On
the 19th the 137th y/as thrown out as skirmish-
ers, and came upon the enemy's skirmishers at
Peach Tree Creek, four miles from Atlanta.
The day being excessively warm, and Col. Yan-
Voorhces^ duties as commander of the skirmish

DeAYitt Guard. 6^

line very arduous, he was prostrated by the heat
and over exertion, acquiring a disability from
which he has not yet fully recovered.

Hooker's Corps crossed Peach Tree Creek on
the night of the 19th ; and on the 20th. while
moving forward to take up a position, Vv'cre un-
expectedly and fiercely attacked by the enemy
in a thick piece of woods. Col. YanYoorhees
was ordered to move his Regiment by the right
Hank and take up a position on the right of an-
other Regiment, and in doing so came almost
directly upon the enemy's line of battle. Not
knowing the position of the rest of the Brigade
owing to the thick underbrush, and fearing that
if he fell back the right flank of the Brigade
would be exposed, he caused his men to main-
tain their position, which they did manfully for
near half an hour, when he learnt that the rest
of the Brigade had fallen back some fifteen min-
utes before, and that his Regiment was left alone
battling with the enemy ; he immediately gave
orders^to fall back, when the Regiment retreated
from its dangerous position. Loss eight killed
and nineteen wounded. Col. YanYoorhees was
suifering at the time with a very high fever, and
could with difficulty sit on his horse. Many of-

64 History op the

ficers ill his condition would have got excused
and went to the rear, but he never wanted his
Regiment to go into action without him ; he be-
came very much attached to it and wished to
share all its dangers. On the 22d, being unable
to sit up, he was carried to the field hospital ;
the Surgeon in charge advised him to make ap-
plication to be sent to the hospital at Chatta-
nooga ; this he refused to do, saying, that after
all the hardships and fighting he had gone
through with in the campaign, he did not want
to be to the rear when Atlanta was taken. He
was, however, on the 25th, against his consent,
sent to the hospital at Lookout Mountain. He
rejoined his Regiment on the 30th August in
time to lead it into Atlanta on the 2d September.
After the death of Col. Ireland, which occur-
red shortly after entering Atlanta, all the offi-
cers* present with the Regiment signed a petition
to Gov. Seymour, which was handsomely en-
dorsed by the Brigade and Division Command-
ers, requesting that Lt. Col. VanYoorhees be
commissioned as Colonel of the Regiment. Ow-
ing to an unjust order from the War Department
that " all Regiments reduced below the minimum
number should be deprived of its Colonel," he

UeWitt Guard. 65

was unable to get mustered, though Gen. Geary
made a direct and special request of the Secre-
tary of War, which was endorsed by Gen. Slo-
cum, requesting that he might be mustered into
the grade of Colonel as a '• reward for his effi-
ciency and gallantry as an officer, his coolness
and bravery on the battle-field, and for his gen-
eral good conduct during the whole of his period
of service," but the request was not granted.

The 20th Corps remained in- Atlanta until the
15th November, when Gen. Sherman commenced
his celebrated " March to the Sea." His march
being entirely unopposed, nothing worthy of note
occurred until their arrival near Savannah, De-
cember 11th. The 137th having been sent out
to feel the enemy's position, were deployed as
skirmishers, and soon came upon the enemy's
skirmishers who were protected by the ruins of
some buildings and by a rice field embankment.
A lively fire was kept up for some time, when it
was deemed advisable to drive them from their
position so as to uncover their front. Col. Yan-
Voorhees gave the order to move forward ; so
impetuous was the charge that the enemy was
quickly driven into his works, and could have
been driven out and beyond them — as they were

66 History of the

seen to leave after firing one round — but as there
was no support at liand, Ct)l. VanYoorhees did
not deem it prudent to assail the fort, which was
defended by several heavy guns, and according-
ly recalled his men after several had gained the
abattis of the fort, and took up a position behind
the rice-field embankment formerly held by the
rebel skirmishers, within two hundred yards of
the rebel fort.

The Regiment remained here until the 21st
December, assisting in the constructioE of works
which could only be done under cover of dark-
ness ; the rebel batteries were very active, and
the men exposed to a constant shelling ; three
shells passed through the Quarters of Col. Van-
Yoorhees in one forenoon, and having moved
his Quarters to another building, a piece of a
shell from a gun-boat passed through his room,
taking in its way a table at which he had been
sitting but a few minutes previous. The Regi-
ment returned from working on a fort about two
o'clock of the morning of the 21st, and shortly
after signs of tlie enemy's evacuating the city
were observable, when Capt. S. B. Wheelock of
the 137th, with ten men, was sent out to recon-
noitre the enemv's works. He found the works

DeWitt Guard. 67

abandoned with the guns still standing in posi-
tion. The fact was reported to the Brigade
Commander, who immediately ordered the Brig-
ade forward into the enemy's works, and from
thence moved directly into the city, arriving
there at daybreak, the 137th was the first to en-
ter the city. The Regiment remained in the city
doing guard duty until the 27th January, 1865^
when it commenced its march through the Oar-
olinas, arriving at Goldsboro, N. C, on the 24th
March.

Col. VanYoorhees having been advised by
several of the army Surgeons to seek a change
of climate for the recovery of his health, which
had been much impaired by exposure and the
malarial influence of the climate, he left Savan-
nah January 1st, and was not with his Regiment
in their march from Savannah to Goldsboro.
He left home February 22d to rejoin his Regi-
ment, but did not succeed in reaching it until its
arrival at Goldsboro. On the 10th April Sher-
man again moved forward in the direction of
Raleigh, N. C, which place he reached on the
iSth April ; here the army remained until the
30th April, when it commenced its march for
Home, arriving at Alexandria, Va., on the 19th

68 History of the

May. The Regiment was mustered out on the
9 th June, and ordered to Elmira, N. Y., where
it was paid off and discharged on the 18th June,
1865, having been nearly three years in active
service.

In giving the military lirstory of Col. Van-
Yoorhees, we have coupled with his also that of
the Regiment, as their histories are one. The
officers and men of his command have always
spoken well of him ; they had confidence in him
as a commander, and esteemed him highly as a
man. He also enjoyed the confidence and re-
spect of his superior officers, especially of Gen.
Geary, who placed the utmost confidence in his
ability as an officer, usually appointing him offi"
cer of the day when more than usual watchful,
ness was required, saying that he " always felt
safe when Col. YanVoorhees was in command
of the picket line. This confidence was also
shared in by the Regiment, it being generally
selected to occupy the most exposed positions,
or lead the column when danG:er was thouo-ht to
be imminent.

Col. YanYoorhees was several times (on ac-
count of the absence of all its field officers) de-
tailed to command the 149th New York, a Syr-

DeWitt Guard. 69

acuse Rcginicnt of wliicli Gen. Barnum, now
State Prison Inspector, was Colonel* On one
of these occasions, when about to be relieved
and returned to his own Regiment, the following-
paper was put into his hands, signed by all the
officers present with the Regiment :

149x11 Reg't N. Y. Vols.,
Aqnia Landing, Va., June 8th, 1863,
Col. K. S. YanYoorhees:

We, the undersigned, officers of
this command, take this opportunity of expressing the feel-
ings of each and every one of us, as the time approaches
which must sever the relations that have existed between us
and you as our commander. "We desire to assure you of our
full appreciation of your services, ahvays characterized by
Idndness and forbearance, and in which the qualities of the
gentleman and soldier have commanded our admiration. We
desire to thank you for the earnestness and zeal you have
exhibited in your endeavors to instruct and better prepare us
for the duties devolving upon us, and to assure you that we
shall always remember the past four weeks, in which you
have been connected with us, with feelings of satisfaction and
pleasxu'e ; and taking leave of you, as we are about to do, we
earnestly hope that in the future that success may attend you
which industry and tidelity always merit.

At the close of tlie war Lt. Col. YanYoorhees
was appointed Colonel by brevet by the Presi-
dent " for gallant and meritorious services in
the late campaigns in Georgia and the Caro-
linas."

TO History of the

{Contributed hy Capt. B. R. \V.)

Joseph Esty, Jr., Clerk, enlisted Sept. 2Gtli,
1855, and was elected Secretary of the Compa-
ny January 14, 1857. July 28th, 1858, he was
first put in the line of promotion by being elec-
ted fourth Corporal, and so great was his popu-
larity with the Company, and his knowledge of
tactics, that within a trifle over four years from
the time of his receiving his chevron as fourth
Corporal, he was elected and received his com-
mission as second Lieutenant, (Aug. 25th, 1862,)
having filled nearly if not all of the inter-
mediate positions. During the Elmira campaign
he was with the Company, steadily refusing to
accept of any better fare or accommodations,
than the men under his charge received.

While at Barracks No 1, he invariably ac-
companied his men to the mess house, and pre-
vented many impositions which of&cers in charge
were in the habit of practicing upon soldiers who
were obliged to take their rations in that unsa-
vory institution. While the Company were on
duty at the rebel prison, no officer did his duty
more cheerfully and strictly. He was never
known to plead illness to avoid his turn, and
the writer of this sketch has, on more than one

DeWitt Guard. 11

occasion, known him to take the turn of otlier
officers who plead illness, when he himself was
not fit for duty. On one occasion he attended
the officer's drill of the Regiment when he was
hardly able to leave his tent, and upon the fact
being reported to the Colonel, he was peremp-
torily ordered to his Quarters, to gain the rest
which he would not take voluntarily.

No officer in the Regiment stood higher in
the estimation of both officers and men, than did
Lieut. Esty ; and such was the respect of his
own Company for him, that upon their return
home and the promotion of Captain Blood to
the position he now occupies, Lieut. Esty was
(Dec. 26th, 1864) elected Captain.

His reluctance to accept the position, showed
thatTe had no aspirations to rise in rank above
his fellows, and it was only upon the urgent en-
treaties of the officers of the Regiment, and his
intimate friends, that he was induced to accept
the honor thus thrust upon him ; and we venture
to say, without any fear of detracting from the
worthy merits of his predecessors, that no officer
has given more time and money to advance the
interest of the Company, than has he— a large
proportion of the target prizes for the past two

72 History of the

years having been procured by Iiim. At the
meeting for target practice August 15tb, 1865,
Captain Esty was presented by the Company
with a splendid sword and belt, which cost about
$120. The Captain was taken completely by
surprise, as he had received no hint of the mat-
ter, and liis overcharged feelings prevented him
from making known to the Company how high-
ly he prized the gift ; but his pleasure at receiv-
ing was not greater than the happiness of the
donors, in thus having an opportunity of demon-
strating their feelings toward him.

The beautiful Armory and Drill-Room now
occupied by the Company, are mainly due to his
indefatigable efforts.

One prominent feature in the history gf the
Company, and one which we fear the historian
may, from feelings of delicacy, omit, was the
splendid supper given, soon after the return of
the Company from Elmira, by Captain Esty and
lady — an entertainment which was a high testi-
monial of the Captain's generosity, and the skill
and hospitality of Mrs. Esty. The supper will
long be remembered by the happy participants.

Captain Esty, in civil life, is no less esteemed
than as a soldier, having been for a number of

DeWitt Guard. 73

years the confidential clerk and book-keeper in
the extensive Leather establishment of Hon. E.
S. Esty, an establishment which owes its success
in no small degree to his energetic and business
qualities.

Charles Hausner, Carpenter, enlisted Oc-
tober 6th, 1855. Served his full time in the
Company. Enlisted Sept. 10th, 1861, in the
United States army, in which he served until the
6th day of Sept., 1862, when he -was honorably
discharged by reason of being totally unservice-
able on account of wounds received while in
the army. He participated in the battle of Fair
Oaks, and received in that one engagement six
wounds, while his clothes were pierced by four-
teen bullets of the enemy. Probably no soldier
ever received the same number of wounds and
lived. Upon his return home he was elected
Captain of Company E, 50th Eegiment Nation-
al Guard.

A. T. Jaryis, Clerk, enlisted March 19th,
1856. Was a member but a short time.

0. Bingham, Boot and Shoe Merchant, en-
listed April 2d, 1856. Served his full time, and
was honorably discharged from further service
in the militia. Upon the breaking out of the

74 History of the

Rebellion he enlisted in Company D, 137tli N.
Y. "Volunteers. August 16th, 1862, was mus-
tered into the United States service at Camp
Susquehanna, Binghamton. Soon after the Reg-
iment Tvas ordered to Washington, and from
thence to Harper's Ferry, Ya., in October, 1862.
The Regiment was soon attached to the 12th
Army Corps ; after a few weeks in camp were
ordered to join Gen. Burnside in front of Fred-
ericksburgh, Ya. On account of the almost im-
passibility of the roads, the Regiment did not
arrive in time to participate in the fight. Were
here ordered into camp at Fairfax, Ya., from
thence to Aquia Landing, on the Potomac.

The Regiment remained in this camp, perfect-
ing themselves in all the arts of war, until Gen,
Hooker had perfected the plan for the battle of
Chancellorsville, to which place the Regiment
was ordered in the latter part of April, 1863,
under command of Gen. Slocum. In this en-
gagement the 137th Regiment did some very
hard fighting, and the hero of this sketch came
near losing his life while performing acts of
kindness to his comrades. He was returning
from a spring near by with a number of canteens
of water, when he was attacked bv a number of

DeWitt Guard. 75

reljels who gave him chase through the woods ;
but our soldier escaped unharmed, although at
one time it seemed that nothing short of a mira-
cle could save him. After the battle the Regi-
ment recrossed the Rappahannock and were
again in camp.

On the 13th of June Mr. Bingham was pro-
moted to the office of Chief Musician of the Reg-
iment by Col. Ireland for meritorious conduct,
and no member of the Regiment or Brigade was
more competent to fill this position. This Of-
fice he held until mustered out of the service.

June 14th the Regiment started for Gettys-
burg ; arrived on the 1st of July and immedi-
ately took position on the right of the line. In
this battle the Regiment was engaged three
days ; Chief Musician Bingham had his cap shot
off his head as he was carrying a wounded Ser-
geant from the line ; he lost five men of his drum
corps, three being wounded and two captured.

In September the 11th and 12th Corps were
detached from the army of the Potomac and or-
dered to Tennessee. The men were transported
in cattle cars, and reached the city of Nashville
after about ten days travel ; from thence were
moved to Wauliatchie Valley. In this valley

76 History of the

one Brigade, composed of the 137th and other
Regiments, in all about one thousand men, were
attacked bj the rebel General Hood with four
thousand picked men ; the enemy finally with-
drew to Lookout Mountain. In this fio'ht our
Chief Musician had his bugle, which was hang-
ing by his side, pierced with a bullet and de-
stroyed.

After several other engagements in this vi-
cinity, the enemy were routed, and the men or-
(^red to prepare for the taking of Atlanta,
which city was captured by the Union forces
Sept. 2d, 1864, Chief Musician Bingham march-
ing in command ot the drum corps of his Divi-
sion playing the familiar tune Yankee Doodle,
to the disgust of -the inhabitants of that city.

From this time comparative quiet reigned un-
til November 14th, when commenced the great
" March for the Sea Coast," which was so suc-
cessfully accomplished^ as also the march from
Savannah to Richmond, from which point i\iQ
army were moved by easy marches to Washing-
ton, at which city they were mustered out of the
service as fast as possible. Our Chief Musician
was mustered out near Washington June 9th,
1865, and immediately sent with the Regiment

DeWitt Guard. 77

to Elmira, where they were paid and honorably
discharo-ed June 20th.

He was in the service nearly three years ;
never lost a day's duty from his Regiment ; he
participated in every engagement of the Regi-
ment from the time it entered the field, and ful-
ly proved himself to be a soldier of ability and
courage, possessing all the qualities that are re-
quisite to make a first-class American soldier.

Now that he has returned to his home and
friends, we all unite in bestowing upon him the
honor he so dearly bought, and respect and
cherish him as one of the defenders of our
common country.

H. W. Bishop, Druggist, elected May 31st,
1856. Doctor Bishop was an excellent member;
served the Company as Treasurer for two years;
filled most of the non-commissioned offices, and
was esteemed highly by all the members, as he
was by the community at large. He was Or-
derly Sergeant at the time he left the Company
and joined the United States army. Yery soon
after his enlistment in the service of his country,
he was promoted to hospital Steward, which po-
sition he filled until removed by death. Many
there are, besides his near relatives and the

78 History of the

Company of wliicli lie was a member, who mourn
the loss of Doctor Bisliop.

E. S. CoNKLiJf, enlisted June 9th, 1856. The
"writer is wholly unacquainted with the history
of this member.

E. B. ToRRET, Banker, enlisted September
10th, 1856. No member ever connected him-
self with the DeWitt Guard who took more in-
terest in the Company than did Mr. Torrey;
and although his profession was such that it
would seem impossible for him to spend any ve-
ry great amount of time with the Company, still
through the kindness and leniency of President
J. B. Williams, and Cashier, Colonel Hardy, he
almost always answered to his name at all the
drills and parades of the Company. At the bu-
siness meeting he was particularly useful, always
lending his advice, and eager to do any thing
that would increase the interest of the members.
Always scrupulously prompt in meeting his ob-
ligations, and we believe during the several
years of his membership, he never allowed his
dues to run over one month ; he filled most of
the non-commissioned offices ; as a soldier he
liked every other soldier, and every other sol-
dier liked him ; and the only way he could ever

DeWitt Guard. 79

dissolve his menibersliip, was by the expiration
of his term of enlistment. He most creditably
served his time and received an honorable dis-
charge. He retired from the Bank a short time
since, and secured a patent for " Torrey's Patent
Artesian Wells," which is a most valuable inven-
tion, and is being universally used wherever in-
troduced. We extend to him our hearty con-
gratulations for the success he has already at-
tained, and earnestly hope that our friend will
realize his full anticipations in his new enter-
prise.

M. R. Barnard, Principal of Public School,
enlisted Sept. 10th, 1856. Mr. Barnard served
his full time and was honorably discharged from
further service in the militia. He served the
Company as Secretary for a year or more. He
is still represented by his son. Corporal E. E.
Barnard ; is brother of John Barnard, the hero
of Lookout Mountain. Has been for many years
Principal of our Public School, having some
times as many as eight hundred scholars. In
this situation, as well as every other one, he
gave the most perfect satisfaction, and the re-
grets we're many that wo heard expressed when
he determined to withdraw from the school, and

80 History of tpie

still many more when it became known that he
had fully determined to change his residence to
Louisville, Ky.

Prof. Barnard is a thorough scholar, a man
of great and comprehensive mind, fine intellect,
and a man in every way qualified to hold the
very first position in societ}^ wherever he may
go. When in his .new home he becomes as well
known as he is here, we know he will be equal-
ly respected. Success and prosperity ever at-
tend him.

Marcus Lyox, Lawyer and District Attor-
ney, elected January 20th, 1857. Mr. Lyon soon
discovered that it would require more of his
time than he could possibly devote to this pur-
pose, and furnished a substitute in the person of
the lamented Wao^er.

Luther Losey, Harness-Maker, enlisted June
27th, 1857. Mr. Losey served his time, was a
good soldier and a fine mechanic, else he could
not have found employment so many years in
the establishment of Colonel Millspaugh. He
is now a resident of one of the Western States.

Henry S. Krum, Shoe Merchant, enlisted
May 18th, 1858. Mr. Krum served but a very
short time as a member of this Company, but

DeWitt Guard. 81

sufficiently long to prepare him to assume com-
mand of a Company upon his entering the Uni-
ted States service. He was in the service for
some time, and upon his return home was elec-
ted Captain of the Caroline Company, National
Guard, which position he still holds.

John C. Hazen, Merchant, enlisted May
18th, 1858. We have very frequently, through
this History, mentioned instances where the
Company were indebted to individual members
for some particular acts, or the interest they
have manifested in the general good and pros-
perity of the Company. In this instance, how-
ever, we have the contrary. We believe Lieut.
Hazen is more indebted to the DeWitt Guard,
than any person now living, and on this point
we are sure we shall satisfy the reader.

July 12th, 1857, the Company visited the city
of Auburn, (an account of which will be found
in the History of the Company). While there,
they were several times the guests of a number
of distinguished citizens of that city. At a very
elaborate and magnificent entertainment given
in honor of the Company, by Hon. B. F. Hall,
the subject of this sketch formed the acquaint-
ance of the daughter of our host. Auburn ^s

4*

82 History of the

fairest daiigb tcrs were there. The elite of the
city were represented. Among them all, the
choice of our friend was the lady just mentioned.
The result of the acquaintance that evening
formed, is generally known. Little did the
good people of Auburn think that our excursion
was to be the means of depriving them of one of
their fairest daughters. Auburn, the loveliest
city of the plain, the loser ; but Ithaca, the For-
est City, the gainer. All must concede that no
one was more deserving, or better entitled to
the prize, than our respected soldier. A very
noticeable and singular incident in connection
with our excursion to Auburn, we came near for-
getting, which should be mentioned here. It is
this : that at that time. Sergeant Hazen was
Company Secretary, and the account of that
trip, so fully and graphically given, in another
part of this book, is taken verbatim from his
minutes.

As we have noticed, Mr. Hazen enlisted in
May, 1858. He was permitted to remain but a
short time in the ranks, but filled all of the
non-commissioned offices, and was Orderly Ser-
geant while in the United States service, which
is a position of much importance, and also one

DeWitt Guard. 83

where the utmost caution must be used, or
the occupant will soon find that his comrades
are exceedingly dissatisfied with him ; it being
the duty of the Orderly to make the various de-
tails. But in this instance, there was never
one word of complaint. The Orderly, in
his pleasant manner, would say to the men :
" Please report for duty, to-morrow morning,"
and invariably the men were there. Every
member of the Company, not only but very
many officers and men with whom we were as-
sociated while in Elmira, became very muclt
attached to Sergeant Hazen ; and all this, not
v\dthout cause, for certainly he was one of the
very best men in camp. To show that he was
appreciated, very soon after the Company re-
turned from Elmira, they elected him First
Lieutenant, which commission he now holds.

Lieutenant Hazen is not only a fine soldier, and
a good and respected officer, but as a citizen and
a business man, he has very few superiors. The
firm of Stowell & Hazen is known throughout the
county, and they enjoy the confidence of as large
a class of customers, as any House in Western
New York. They conform to a strict degree of
honesty in small as well as large transactions,

84 History of the

and by this means have built up a reputation
second to none in the State.

Edward D. Norton, Printer, enlisted June
17, 1858. His qualifications as a soldier, were
sufficiently good to entitle him to fill the posts
of Corporal and Sergeant in a worthy and cred-
itable manner. He was employed for many
years in the Ithaca Journal oftice,- but finally re-
moved to the city of Rochester, where he' now
resides.

William Byington, Merchant, enlisted June
21st, 1858. Mr. Byiugton served his full time,
*and was honorably discharged. He was a good
soldier, an equally good Corporal, and a better
Sergeant. At the time the Company were call-
ed into the United States service, it was impos-
sible for Sergeant Byington to accompany them ;
Lieut. Kenney, his partner, being an officer in
the Company, it was desirable to have him, and
of course both could not leave ; but the Ser-
geant, at considerable expense, furnished a sat-
isfactory substitute. He was never behind his
comrades in contributing in any way that would
be for the general good of the institution. He
is one of the enterprising merchants of this
place, and all acquainted with him can testify

DeWitt Guard. 85

to Ills equally good qualifications as a citizen,
that we have as a soldier.

William L. Minturn, Mason, enlisted Juno
17th, 1858. Was a faithful and attentive sol-
dier, served his full time and received an honor-
able discharge. There is no better man in the
community than Mr. Minturn. As for his repu-
tation as a Master Mechanic, Ave refer the read-
er to the many buildings erected under his su-
pervision in our village.

Silas K. Zimmer, Clerk, enlisted July, 20th,
1858. Mr. Zimmer served a number of years
with the Company to the most perfect satisfac-
tion of both ofncers and men. He was one of
the employees of that prince of merchants, L. H.
Culver, Esq.

A. Brum, Clothing Merchant, enlisted July
27th, 1858. Was connected with the Company
but a short time. Removed, we believe, to the
city of New York.

Philip S. Ryder, Artist, enlisted July 27th,
1858. Mr. Ryder performed well the duties of
a member of this Company so long as he re-
mained a resident of the district. We believe
he is now a resident of Cleveland, 0.

Levi Kenxey, Merchant, enlisted June 24th ,

86 History of the

1858. After serving a very short time as pri-
vate, was elected Corporal, promoted to Ser-
geant, and finally to first Lieutenant, which com-
mission he held until the expiration of his term
of enlistment, when he resigned. Lieutenant
Kenney was a stirring and an energetic officer.
The command of the Company devolved upon
him much of the time while in the United States
army, and at one time was in command of the
Regiment. The Company had been but a few
days at Elmira, when Lieut. Kenney was selec-
ted from among all the officers to command a
very large detachment of substitutes, drafted
men and bounty -jumpers to the Head-Quarters of
Gen. Grant's army. He selected his officers and
Guard with care, and we think his report upon
his return, to the Commander of the Post, was
as satisfactory as any return ever made to him.
This is the only instance that occurred while
there, of the command being given to an officer
of less rank than Captain. The Lieutenant was
detailed from his command on three different
occasions and commissioned one of the court-
martial for the trial of officers only. He was
elected clerk of the court, and the records were
kept by him equally well as by one who had long

DeWitt Guard. 87

been familiar with the duties of an office of that
kind. He was one of the best officers in the
Regiment, thoroughly familiar with his duties,
and required of his men (as do all good officers)
a prompt and willing obedience to all commaods.
He was complimented on several occasions by
Col. Wisner, commanding the Regiment ; also
received honorable mention by Major Beal, of
the veteran Reserve Corps, and by Col. Moore,
commanding the Post.

Soon after returning from Elmira his term of
service expired, and he resigned his commission
and was granted an honorable discharge. No
officer or enlisted man ever served his term with
more fidelity than did Lieut. Kenney, and no
officer was more entitled to the respect of his
men. He is the senior partner in the firm of
Kenney, Byington & Co., the only exclusively
Dry-Goods House in Ithaca ; and their splen-
didly arranged and well filled store, together
with the vast amount of patronage they enjoy
is sufficient proof that he is as well appreciated
as a citizen and business man, as he was a sol-
dier and officer.

James H. Smith, Tin-Smith, enlisted Septem-
ber 2d, 1858. As long as Mr. Smith was a cit-

88 History of the

izcn of Ithaca ho was a member in good stand-
ing in this Company. Our recollection is that
he served about three j-ears. He removed to
Elmira.

P. B. Wager, Lawyer, enlisted January 5th,
1859. Remained with the Company until he
enlisted in the service of his country. No young
man ever started in life with a more brilliant
prospect than did Mr. Wager ; had but a short
time previous to his enlistment in the United
States army been admitted to the bar, and had
commenced the practice of Law with very
marked success. At the outbreak of the Rebel-
lion he enlisted in Company I, 32d New York
Yolunteers, and received a Lieutenancy, which
commission he held until the time of his death.
He died in camp, and his remains were forward-
ed to his home and buried with military honors
by this Company, assisted by the entire Fire De-
partment of the village. Lieutenant Wager was
a patriotic soldier and a courageous officer.

D. A. McKay, Cigar Manufacturer, enlisted
May 12th, 1859. Served as a member of this
Company imtil his enlistment in the United
States army. Was soon commissioned Lieuten-
ant, and faithfully served until the close of the

DeWitt Guard. 8i>

■)

war. We have becD unable to collect as full a
history of Lieutenant McKay as we would have
been glad to have given; but we are able to say,
however, that his war history was an honorable
one, and he has a lasting claim upon his fellow
citizens for gallant services rendered his country
during the hour of her peril.

C. C. Greenly, Merchant, enlisted Septem-
ber 27th, 1859. But a very short period of time
elapsed between his enlistment and the time
when he was duly confirmed fourth Corporal of
Company A. Step by step he advanced until
commissioned a Lieutenant by Gov. Fenton,
which commission he now holds. Each office he
has filled most honorably, and no member stands
higher in the estimation of the Company to-day
than Lieut. Greenly. While serving in the ar-
my, he performed the duties that devolved upon
him in a manner that would have been highly
creditable to an officer of many years experience.

It was the pleasure of the writer to be associ-
ated with Lieut. Greenly and others who were
in charge of a detail of men whose destination
was the Head-Quarters of Gen. Grant at City
Point, and too much credit cannot be awarded
the Lieutenant for the care with which he

90 History of the

guarded his men, turning over to the authorities
at City Point ever}^ man of his comaiand, while
others would be short five or six, and sometimes
many more ; all in his charge wei^e either draft-
ed men, substitutes, or deserters. The writer
most thoroughly appreciated the company of
Lieut. Greenly in that expedition, and wishes to
acknowledge many favors shown him.

It may be supposed by many that the duties
of the members of the DeWitt Guard at Elmira
were not very arduous ; but in this particular
instance we know the contrary to be the case.
Aside from the regular camp duties, (which a
portion of the time were very severe,) the Lieu-
tenant carried on an extensive correspondence,
the satisfactory termination of which resulted in
the marriage of our respected officer soon after
his return from the field.

W. F. Finch, Merchant, enlisted May 1st,
1860. During nearly six years of membership,
we find Mr. Finch marked absent from the drills
but three or four times — surely a good introduc-
tion. Not only in attendance, however, was he
regular and punctual, but in every other duty
required of him as a member of the Company.
So particular was he not to be in arrears on

DeWitt Guard. 91

the Company's books, that we believe there was
not six months of his membership that the Com"
pany were not indebted to him for dues and tax-
es paid in advance. He enjoyed the exercise of
the drill, and became perfectly familiar with the
tactics and evolutions ; took great pride in be-
ing a good soldier. Against his wishes he was
elected Corporal, and by various promotions
reached the position of second Sergeant. A lit-
tle more than a year ago we were deprived of
the pleasure of the further direct membership of
our respected Sergeant, by the interposition of
our esteemed Colonel, H. D. Barto, who, discov-
ering in him a man with the qualifications of a
perfect soldier, appointed him to a position on
his staff, which, after due consideration, he ac-
cepted. Still he retains his membership in the
Company so far as paying his dues are concerned.
He is a member of the firm of Morrison, Haw-
kins & Finch, the leading Dry-Goods House of
the place.

Edgar M. Finch, Book-Keeper, enlisted June
6th, 18G0. Is brother of Sergeant W. F. Finch,
and the same must be said in his case, so far as
holding office is concerned, with one exception.
He has filled every non-commissioned office

92 History of the

— is now Orderly Sergeant. He served with
his Company during their term of enlistment in
the United States army. No better soldier can
be found, not even in the regular army, than
Sergeant Finch. The most regular attendant
at the drills, meetings and parades, of any mem-
ber ever connected with the Company. As will
be noticed, he enlisted over six years ago, and
during that time has never paid a fine. He is
one of the most unassuming, yet one of the no-
blest and most generous young men of Ithaca.

JoH2^ C. Heath, Wholesale and Retail Gro-
cer, enlisted September 4th, 1860.

We know of no one who has devoted more
time, or distributed more money to build up,
keep in existence and sustain the military organ-
izations of the day, than Quartermaster Heath.
Whatever he becomes interested in, either in a
military or business way, he invariably drives to
a successful termination. In the organization of
the Regiment he took an active part, and we
know Colonel Barto must feel under great in-
debtedness to him for rendering invaluable as-
sistance in organizing and mustering in the ser-
vice many of the new Companies.

While connected with the Company he was

DeWitt Guard. 93

one of its best members and warmest supporters;
and although at the present time in no way di-
rectly connected with them as a Company, he
still manifests a deep interest in its prosperity.
His jQrst ofiSce was fourth Corporal, from which
he was promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant up-
on the non-commissioned staff of Col. H. A.
Dowe, (since promoted to Brigadier General.)
Upon the reorganization of the Regiment, he
accepted the commission of Quartermaster upon
the staff of Colonel Barto, which he now holds,
the duties of which for the past year and a half
have been onerous, having distributed to the va-
rious Companies of the Regiment all their arms,
clothing and other equipage, besides performing
other duties not direct!}' in the line of his office.
The officers, as well as the men of the 50th Reg-
iment, owe Quartermaster Heath a debt of grat-
itude, which we are led to believe will only be
cancelled by their continuing to sustain and keep
alive the interest they have recently manifested
in their Companies, and make the Regiment one
of the best in the State.

We congratulate our friend on being associa-
ted in business with James B. Taylor, Esq., the
most celebrated of all Ithaca Grocery mer-

94 History of the

chants. The firm of J. B. Taylor & Co. is
known from New York to Chicago, and from
Boston to New Orleans, as the most responsible
and most accommodating of any establishment
of the kind between these extreme points ; also,
for keeping the largest stock of goods, and sell-
ing them the cheapest, of any House outside of
the great cities.

With Quartermaster Heath to look after the
interest of the militia, and Alderman Taylor
that of his constituents and the general welfare
of our village, we may consider ourselves safe
beyond the possibility of a doubt.

H. W. Jackson, Jr., Merchant, enlisted Sep-
tember 4th, 1860. Yery soon after joining this
Company he enlisted in the United States ser-
vice, being one of the organizers of Company I,
32d New York Yoluntcers. Was elected first
Lieutenant, which commission he held for about
a year and a half, when his health failing he was
compelled to resign. He was engaged in two
or three battles under Gen. Franklin.

C. Wood WORTH, Merchant, enlisted Septem-
ber 4th, 1860. Mr. Wood worth was most an
estimable man in every respect. During the
short time he was connected with the Company,

DeWitt Guard. 95

every member became warmly and firmly at-
tached to him.

He removed froni this place to For Du Lac,
Wis., where he had been a resident but a short
time when, in the all-wise Providence of God,
he was called to that Heavenly City for which he,
in a most eminent degree, was prepared to enter.

George H. Geant, Clerk, enlisted April 23d,
1861. Served faithfully as a member of this
Company, also in the United States army and
in the United States navy. Was most thorough-
ly appreciated by the members of this Company.
During the Elmira campaign he was one of the
great alleviators of that terrible disease — home-
sickness. Will long be remembered as one of
the celebrated Quartette — Grant, Wilson, Betts
and Johnson.

E. J. Farnham, Clerk, enlisted April 23d,
1861. Was one of the first soldiers that enlist-
ed from this place in the United States army.
Served honorably in Company A, 32d New York
Volunteers, until in consequence of disease con-
tracted in the army, he was no longer qualified
to serve and was honorably discharged. Was
a good soldier, and sacrificed his health for the
honor of his country.

96 History of the

Adnah Neyhart, Speculator, enlisted April
23cl, 1861, By reason of his profession, Mr.
Neyhart was much of the time separated from
the Company, but always prompt in meeting his
obligations and sustaining the Company in eve-
ry possible way, aside from being personally
present. Furnished a substitute who represent-
ed him in the United States army, suffered many
reverses in business, but fortunately his last in-
vestment was a good onQ—he struch oil — and is
now again " sounds

We congratulate him ; no one has worked
harder for, or is better entitled to, a two hun-
dred and fifty barrel well than Adnah.

Thomas A. Brown, Tin-Smith, enlisted April
23cl, 1861. Was an active member during the
short time he was a resident of the village.

R. W. Heggie, Clerk, enlisted July 3d, 1861.
No young man ever joined this Company that
evinced more interest in its success and general
welfare, than did Mr. Heggie, and no member
was more respected. He was in every way cal-
culated to win the esteem and friendship of all
with whom he became associated. He very
readily became a perfect soldier. With a fer-
vent love for his country, and a desire to do

DeWitt Guard. 97

something for its defence in the hour of its peril,
he enlisted, August 26th, 1863, in Company G,
loth New York Cavalry ; was soon elected first
Sergeant, and May 24th, 1864, was commissioned
Lieutenant. Was engaged in many battles, in
one of which he was wounded and a short time
separated from his Company. He was a coura-
geous officer, always ready to dash into the con-
flict. Several times he was in command of
troops, conveying them from Boston to Charles-
ton ; was then entrusted by Government with a
position of great responsibility and importance,
but at all times was equal to his duties. He
faithfully served until the close of the war, and
was honorably mustered out. Is now connected
with one of the largest cotton establishments of
the South, and located at Galveston, Texas.

John S. Gay, Clerk, enlisted July 3d, 1861.
Was a member until July 7th, 1865 ; was with
the Company during their term of service in the
army ; a good soldier that could be trusted, and
he accompanied several detachments to the front.
Is now engaged in business at Cairo, 111.

W. H. Kellogg, Tobacconist, enlisted July
8d, 1861. Served as a member until July 7th,
1865. Yolunteered in the United States army

98 History of the

Sept. 2d, 1864, and honorably served the full
term of his enlistment.

Henry A. St. John, Merchant, enlisted July
3d, 1861. Although his name is recorded as en-
listing July 3d, 1861, he had, however, been
connected with the Company a long time previ-
ous to that date, but in a capacity that would
not admit of his signing the roll and becoming
a regular member under the statute. Display-
ing a taste for the science of military while a
mere boy, he was elected by the members of this
Company one of their markers. At the time he
became a full member he was well versed in the
school of the soldier, and familiar with the school
of the Company. Was soon elected fourth Cor-
poral, being the youngest member that had ever
held office ; was gradually promoted until he
reached the post of second Sergeant, which po-
sition he now fills. Sergeant St. John particu-
larly distinguished himself while at Elmira ; was
one of the best non-commissioned officers of the
Regiment. Col. R. P. Wisner, commanding the
58th Regiment, twice appointed him to fill va-
cancies occasioned by absence of officers of his
staff. Was the first Sergeant detached from tho
Regiment and placed in charge over substitutes

DeWitt Guard. 99

and deserters, en route for City Point, arriving
at his destination without the loss of a man.
He fully understood his duty, enforcing strict
discipline, and requiring his men to conform to
all the regulations and articles of war, but
equally careful not to exceed the bounds of his
authority.

He is one of the most active men of the Com-
pany ; always first in any enterprise, the object
of which is the good of the organization. He
has contributed much toward this History by
giving a detailed and very accurate account of
the Elmira campaign, which may be found on
another page. It is a pleasure to be associa-
ted with him as a soldier, or socially in the or-
dinary walks of life. Is a member of the firm
of G. W. Baker & Co., the popular Dry-Goods
House of the place.

M. L. Granger, Merchant, enlisted July 3d,
1861. In time and money Mr. Granger has sac-
rificed much for the sake of being a soldier.
Always present at parades, drills or meetings,
and always prompt to meet his obligations. He
volunteered in the United States service with
the Company in 1864, shared the pleasures and
deprivations of camp life with his comrades. For

100 History of the

the fatherly care and attention shown the young-
er members, and those who needed assistance in
any way, he was named and known in camp by
the title of '* Uncle Amos." He honestly served
out the term of his enlistment and was honora-
bly discharged. Is partner in the firm of J. S.
Granger & Co., a very extensive Dry-Goods
House, who enjoy the reputation of keeping the
most carefully selected stock of goods of any es-
tablishment of the kind in Central New York.

Robert Goodwin, Baker, enlisted July 3d,
1861. A good soldier and an upright man.
Was employed in the Bakery department of the
extensive establishment of John L. Whiton, Esq.
Removed West about three years ago.

James Stanyon, Blacksmith, enlisted July
3d, 1861. Was Company musician, and served
as such until he volunteered in the United States
service. He was a worthy and honorable sol-
dier, engaged in many battles. We have been
unable to obtain his war history for publication.

Henry W. Collins, Clerk, enlisted July 3d,
1861. Like Sergeant St. John, Mr. Collins was
one of the Company markers long before he be-
came a regular member. Was a soldier of mer-
it, and liked by all the members. Served the

DeWitt Guard. 101

Company as Secretary ; his skillful penmanship,
as shown upon the records, would be of itself a
sufficient recommendation ; but " none need ap-
ply ^^^ as he is now first book-keeper in the New
York office of Adams' Express Company. His
absence is temporary, however, as he still con-
siders Ithaca his residence, and is still a member
of this Company.

John C. Gauntlett, Druggist, enlisted Sep-
tember 4th, 1861. Mr. Gauntlett has always
been as popular as a soldier, as he is a citizen
and associate. He is of the class that we would
always like to retain as members ; but to meet
the demands of superior officers, we are obliged
to relinquish our claim upon them. Starting
from the ranks, Sergeant Gauntlett had reached
the post of fourth Sergeant, when Colonel Barto
selected him as Regimental Standard-bearer,
which office he now holds. Not feeling disposed
to leave his old friends, however, he retains his
membership and position in the Company, and
still acts with them, except on Regimental pa-
rade. He volunteered with the Company in the
United States service, and well and faithfully
served out the terra of his enlistment.

He is engaged in the Drug and Medicine bu-

102 History of the

siness, and it is a matter of pride to him, and a
source of gratification to his numerous friends,
that he stands at the head of that branch of
trade in Tompkins county.

Irving W. Norton, Cigar-Maker, enlisted
September 4th, 1861. Was a good soldier while
connected with the Company. Volunteered in
the United States service, and received a bayo-
net wound near his right eyCc By this he was
prevented from being with his Company for a
short time, when he again resumed his duties and
served the full term of his enlistment. Mr. Nor-
ton, and the night he was wounded, will lon^
be remembered by the DeWitt Guard.

John L. Mandeville, Civil Engineer and
Surveyor, enlisted October 2d, 1 861. A prompt
and systematic soldier, and a most excellent
member of the Company. Although a resident
of the town of Caroline, is as frequently at the
drills as many who live in town. Has always
taken a great interest in the Company, accom-
panied them to Elmira, and volunteered in the
United States service. Was permitted to serve
but a short time with the Company, however, as
he was detailed chief Clerk at Colonel Moore's
Head-Quarters ; ho was, nevertheless, always

DeWitt Guard. 103

ready for any kind of duty, when not engaged
in his office. While acting as sentinel (reliev-
ing one of the guard for a play spell) one night,
he alone arrested two desperate characters, who
were stealing from the camp of the 58th Regi-
ment, for which he received a unanimous vote of
thanks. He served the full term of his enlist-
ment, and was honorably discharged, since which
time, until recently, he has been engaged in civil
engineering in and around Washington and
Baltimore. He has now returned, and can be
addressed at Mott's Corners, Tompkins county,
N. Y.

. E, K. Johnson, Clerk, enlisted March 10th,
1862. Mr. Johnson, better known as "Kirk,"
was honored with a non-commissioned office.
Served with the Company as Secretary, and from
his records we make extracts elsewhere. Was
a capital soldier, a perfect gentleman, and a first
rate fellow generally. Volunteered and served
in the United States service with the DeWitt
Guard at Elmira. No more daring soldier ever
stood up before a live Johnny, than he ; was de-
tailed as police — the celebrated quartette, John-
son, Betts, Grant and Wilson — and we can as-
sure the reader that every thing within their

104 History of the

reach was perfectly safe. Consistent with their
obligations as police officers, they watched the
various hen-roosts, and other places likely to be
disturbed by unruly soldiers ; and not more than
fifteen or sixteen times did they find in the cook
stove oven of Company A, turkeys, chickens,
ducks, and other domestic fowls. At the close
of his term of service in the army, he made an
engagement with a large establishment at the
West, where he has since resided. He has warm
Sind peculiar attachments to the place of his birth,
and we earnestly hope it may yet be his perma-
nent residence.

A. H. Platts, Grocer, enlisted March 7th,
1862. Eetained his membership but a very short
time.

W. H. HosFORD, Mechanic, enlisted August
6th, 1862. Served honorably in the United
States army. We should have been glad to have
published his war history, but have been unable
to procure it.

James H. Bishop, Carpenter, enlisted Au-
gust 6th, 1862. August 16th, 1862, Mr. Bishop
volunteered in the United States army for three
years, unless sooner discharged. Soon after en-
listing, he joined Captain John H. Terry's Com-

DeWitt Guard. 105

pany, which was connected with the 137th Reg-
iment, commanded by Col. David Ireland, and
subsequently by Col. K. S. VanVoorhees. Be-
fore leaving Binghamton was elected Corporal.
The first camp duty performed by Corporal
Bishop, was picket duty on Bolivar Heights ;
the weather becoming severely cold, and he be-
ing placed upon the " lookout,'^ which was the
highest point on the Heights, he suffered more
from cold and exposure than he did during all
the time he was in the service. This post he
occupied one week ; soon after this the camp
was removed to Fairfax Station. April 27th
was ordered to pack and be ready to move.
The baggage of each soldier consisted of his
clothes, tent, blankets, eight day's rations, and
one hundred and sixty rounds of cartridges, with
gun and accroutrements. Corporal Bishop was
engaged in each day's battle at Chancellorsville,
which were the 1st, 2d and 3d days of May.
Was next engaged at the battle of Gettysburg,
where he was constantly fighting for three days.
After the return of the Regiment to Virginia,
Corporal Bishop was detailed for special duty,
and sent to Elmira on recruiting service, at
which place he remained until April, 1864, when

5*

106 History of the

he again joined his regiment at Stevenson, Ala.
Was engaged in the skirmishes around Resacca,
and finally in the battle at that place, which was
from the 12th to the loth of May. Participated
in the sharp fight at Dallas Woods, also at Pine
Knob and the severe battle of Peach Tree Creek.
After these and many other battles of less ac-
count, the Regiment marched into the city of
Atlanta at midnight, the band playing " The
Campbells are Coming." Thus ended a cam-
paign of four months.

Again taking up a line of march toward Mil-
ledgeville, the only obstructions they met were
the railroads, which were speedily rendered use-
less by taking up the track, heating the rails in
a fire made of the ties, and then twisting them
around the nearest tree or stump. Being obliged
to depend upon the country through which they
passed for subsistence, foraging parties were
each day sent out, and supplies of sweet pota-
toes, pork and poultry would be brought in by
them, upon which they lived like nabobs. After
marching many days and much skirmishing, they
finally entered the city of Savannah about sun-
rise on the morning of the 22d day of December.
From this time up to the time of the muster-out

DeWitt Guard. lOT

of the Regiment, Corporal Bisliop was every day
ready for duty, losing no time by sickness or
otherwise. Was finally mustered out with his
Regiment and honorably discharged. All hon-
or to Corporal James H. Bishop of the 137th
Regiment New York Volunteers.

He is now settled down again in his old home,
receiving the congratulations of his friends, and
prepared at all times to assist them '' to a new
house," or accommodate them in any way in the
line of his profession.

A. L. Bishop, Carpenter, enlisted August
6th, 1862. Soon after joining the DeWitt
Guard, Mr. Bishop volunteered in the United
States service, into which he was mustered Aug.
16th, 1862, in Captain J. H. Terry's Company,
1 37th New York Volunteers. Before leaving
Binghamton, the first place of rendezvous of the
Regiment, Mr. Bishop was elected and appoint-
ed first Duty Sergeant of the Regiment. He
left Binghamton with his Regiment for the seat
of war Sept. 27th, 1862. The first camp of any
account was at Pleasant Valley, where our Ser-
geant experienced rather hard fare — being
obliged to eat rations which would, by very fas-
tidious persons, liave been considered rather un-

108 History of the

palatable — but of course soldiers must get used
to most every thing, and so our friend made the
best of his " hard tack" and fresh meat. On the
10th day of December he was elected and ap-
pointed Orderly Sergeant, filling the vacancy
occasioned by the death of Orderly Sergeant
M. L. Beers. Arrived at Aquia Jan. 27th, 1863.
The duty here was very severe, consisting of
camp guard, picket guard, ordinance guard, rail-
road guard and fatigue duty. Remained in
camp at this point until the last of April, when
orders were received to be ready to march at a
moment's warning, which orders were carried
into execution April 27th, when the Rappahan-
nock was crossed at Kelly's Ford, moving in the
direction of Chancellorsville, where the Compa-
ny were engaged the 1st, 2d and 3d days of
May, on each of which Sergeant Bishop took an
active part.

On the 8th day of June he was commissioned
and mustered as second Lieutenant of Compa-
ny D, vice Lieutenant Whitmore resigned. Was
engaged the 2d and 3d days of July in the
battle of Gettysburg. Was in command of
troops that guarded the wagon trains from Nash-
ville, Tenn., to Bridgeport, Wa. Also marched

DeWitt Guard. 109

and guarded a wagon train to Chattanooga ;
arriving as far as Wanhatchie baited for the
night, comfortably rolling themselves in their
blankets preparatory to a good night's rest.
About eleven o'clock firing was heard upon the
picket line, when they were ordered out and
soon in line, which had hardly been done before
they received a sharp volley of musketry from
the rebels. The fight lasted until three o'clock
of the next morning. The killed, wounded and
missing of the 137th Regiment in this engage-
ment was ninety men. Lieut. Bishop also par-
ticipated in the famous fight at Lookout Moun-
tain, and that of Ringold, Ga.

May 2d, 1864, he commenced the great Geor-
gia campaign with Gen. Sherman ; was engaged
in the battle of Rosacea from the 12th to the
15th of May, and on the 25th in the battle of
Dallas Wood ; the next engagement was at Pine
Knob on the 15th of June ; had continued skir-
mishing until the 20th of July, when occurred
the battle of Peach Tree Creek, Ga., after which
they rested until the 23d, when they moved in
front of Atlanta; marched into the city Sept.
2d at twelve o'clock, after a campaign of over
four months.

110 History of the

October 24th Lieut. Bishop was commissioned
and mustered first Lieutenant of Company D,
vice Lieut. C. C. Kellogg resigned. October
25th he was sent out with a foraging party ;
were out four davs and returned with five hun-
dred wagon loads of forage. November 1st
started for home on a twenty days leave of ab-
sence, and eight of the days were occupied in
getting there : upon his return he found the
Eegiment at Savannah. January 27th he Vvas
ordered to the hospital, being wholly unfit for
duty ; was detained there twenty days : was
again with the Regiment at Raleigh, N. C,
where orders were received to be ready forth-
with to march for Richmond, the Confederacy
having succumbed to the government of the Uni-
ted States. Passed through Richmond the 11th
of May, crossed the Rappahannock at U. S. ford
the 15th, and arrived at Alexandria on the 19th.
May 23d he received an order stating that he
was honorably discharged from further service
by reason of physical disability ; arrived at his
home in Ithaca June 20th, 1865.

No more worthy soldier or respected officer
ever enlisted or commanded a Company, than
Lieut. A. L. Bishop ; and a more honorable re-

DeWitt Guard. Ill

cord than his cannot be produced — always ready
to do his whole duty to his comrades and his
country.

J. H. Terry, Lawyer, enlisted August 4th,
1862. Had belonged to the Company but a
short time when he enlisted in the United States
service, and was elected Captain of a Company
organized in this village. We have been una-
ble to obtain his war history. He is now en-
gaged in his profession at the West.

B. R. Williams, Junior Editor of the Ithaca
Citizen and Democrat, enlisted September 3d,
1862. Captain Williams, while connected with
the Company, was one of its most useful mem-
bers, and it gives us pleasure to be afforded this
opportunity to acknowledge our obligations, and
also to accord to him the honor which is his due.

He was permitted to remain as a private in
the Company but a very short time before he
was elected Corporal, and by promotion reached
the position of Sergeant, in which capacity he
enlisted in the United States service with this
Company in September, 1864 ; there, after a
short time, the Company were deprived of his
services by reason of his accepting a position
upon the staff of Col. E. P. Wisner, which, how-

112 History of the

ever, did not separate him from his former asso-
ciates. Captain Williams, by his many acts of
personal kindness toward the members of the
DeWitt Guard while in the service, and partic-
ularly toward the officers, in rendering them the
most [invaluable assistance in arranging and
closing up their account, was entitled to and re-
ceived their most hearty thanks. He rendered
very many acts of kindness officially which were
in no way connected with the duties of his office,
but it seemed to be a pleasure for him to do any
thing for the officers and men of his former Com-
pany. He was constantly on terms of the most
perfect friendship with the officers and men of the
Regiment, and was a particular favorite with all.
While a member of the Company he filled the
office of Secretary, and we are permitted to copy
extracts from his minutes which we do on an-
other page. Very soon after returning from El-
mira, he was commissioned Captain of Engineers
in the 50th Regiment, National Guard. Not-
withstanding his promotion, he still insists upon
retaining his membership in the DeWitt Guard,
against which not one objection is known to ex-
ist ; it is the strong desire of every member of
the Company that he may continue such, as long

DeWitt Guard. 113

as they are in any way connected with said ins-
titution.

M. L. Thompson, Speculator, enlisted Septem-
ber 8th, 1862. Removed from the District soon
after enlisting ; sought his fortune in the oil
wells of Pennsylvania, which adventures, we are
pleased to state, have been successful.

George E. Halsey, Druggist, enlisted Sep-
tember 23d, 1862. Served with the Company un-
til he represented himself in the United States
army by substitution, when he withdrew Irom
this Company. Is proprietor of the celebrated
Fountain Drug Store of this village.

Yernon J. Terry, Tobacconist, enlisted Sep-
tember 23d, 1862. Mr. Terry is the third
member of the same family who have served as
members of this Company. On account of busi-
ness it was impossible for him to personally accom-
pany his comrades during their service in the
United States army, — but generously furnished
a substitute at an expense to him of over one
hundred dollars. He is one of the large tobac-
co and cigar manufactures of this village, and
his brand upon the weed is a sure indication of
prime stock.
Alfred Brooks, Hat, Cap and Fur Merchant,

114 History op the

enlisted October 1st, 1862. Is now fourth Ser-
geant of the Company ; is a favorite, not only
of the Company, but of the community at large ;
was a good soldier, is a good Sergeant, and will
make a good Captain or Colonel. Stood face to
face with the Rebels at Elmira, and never evinced
the slightest degree of cowardice.

He is the junior partner of the firm of F.
Brooks & Son, so favorably known throughout
the county. The most fastidious cannot fail in
being exactly suited with a selection from their
extensive assortment of hats, caps or furs.

P. L. Root, Painter, enlisted May 12th, 1863.
Served but a very short time.

Erastus M. Cronk, Traveling Agent, enlisted
May 19th, 1863. Mr. Cronk's profession is such
that necessarily he is absent from many of the
drills and meetings of the Company, but he is al-
ways willing to pay for all such absences.

He procured a substitute that represented him
in the United States army, with a desire to do
all that he can for the good of the organization,
and a perfect willingness to stand by all rules
and regulations of the Company. He is a good
member, although only occasionally meeting with
them.

DeWitt Guard. 115

E. T. Gardner, Mason, enlisted May 19th,
1863. At the time the Company volunteered in
the service of the general government, Mr. Gard-
ner did not go, being under eighteen years of
age at the time he enlisted, and not legally a
soldier. Hence his name was stricken from the
Roll.

E. M. Greenly, Professor in Ithaca Academy,
enlisted May 20th, 1863. Very much of the
time since his enlistment he has been traveling
in foreign countries. Since his final return he
has not renewed his membership.

William H. Hern, Clerk, enlisted May 21st,
1863. Mr. Hern was a first-class soldier, and
a young man of high standing and great respec-
tability in society. He removed from this vil-
lage to the city of Syracuse ; is engaged in candy
manufacturing. Has also a large bakery which
is in opperation day and night, and is doing a
very profitable business.

Thomas Hern, Confectioner, enlisted May
21st, 1863. Served with the Company in the
United States army, and was a true and faith-
ful soldier ; was respected by both officers and
men.

Albert Frame, Shoemaker, enlisted May 21st,

116 History of the

1863. Is now Corporal, which position he gained
by being one of the most regular members at
meetings and drills, and one the best drilled
soldiers of the Company. Corporal Frame is
one of the most unassuming and quiet members,
but one of the best men that ever kept step with
the beat of the drum. He proved himself one
of the " excelsior" during the term of enlistment
in the United States service. Was one of the
guard over a large detachment of troops sent to
the front, and we speak understandingly when
we say he was the best soldier that possibly
could have been selected for that purpose. No
bribe, however large, was sufficient to induce him
to depart from his duty in the slightest degree.
He well and truly performed all the duties re-
quired of a soldier, and was honorably discharged
with the Company on expiration of his term of
enlistment at Elmira.

Charles R. Randolph, Book-Binder, enlisted
May 21st, 1863. Is brother of the late Major
John Randolph. Served with the Company un-
til transferred to the 50th Regimental Band, by
order of Colonel Henry D. Bar to. Mr. Ran-
dolph furnished a substitute to represent him in
the army of the United States, after paying three

PeWitt Guard. Ill

hundred dollars, being one of the original draft-
ed men.

Mr. Randolph is Foreman in the Bindery de-
partment of the establishment of Andrus, Mc-
Chain & Company. Has not only the confi-
dence and respect of his employers, but of the
community at large.

E. E. Warfield, Harness-Maker, enlisted
May 21st, 1863. A good soldier, an honest, up-
right man, and a superior mechanic. Was with
the Company at Elmira, and honorably served
the full term of his enlistment.

Charles Rice, Rail Road Man, enlisted May
21st, 1863. But never served.

William S, Crittenden, Clerk, enlisted May
21st, 1863. Mr. Crittenden is a good member,
and is faithfully serving the term of his enlist-
ment. Was with the Company in the United
States service, and performed all the duties re-
quired of him. Is a book-keeper and account-
ant ; and has been selected as the most compe-
tent person to take the militia enrollment of
this district.

Uri Clark, Jeweler, enlisted May 26th, 1863.
Sergeant Clark is as good a soldier as he is a
perfect engraver, and as good an officer as he is

118 History of the

skillful and perfect in the various arts of which
he is master. With no show of arrogance on
account of his attainments, he fulfills his duties
as a member of the DeWitt Guard as cheerfully
and as consistent as he does any and all the du-
ties of a good citizen, and an upright member of
society. He was honored by the members of the
Company by being elected in the first place to
the vacancy occasioned by the promotion of the
fourth Corporal ; he bore his honor meekly,
and by gradual promotion has reached the rank
of third Sergeant.

Sacrificed his business for the sake of doing
his duty as a soldier, and volunteered with the
Company in the service of the United States in
September, 1864, and most honorably did he
serve the full term of his enlistment.

E. C. Marsh, Merchant, enlisted June 3d,
1863. Served honorably as Lieutenant in the
United States army. We have been unable co
procure his war history for publication.

W. H. HoYT, Tobacconist, enlisted June 3d,
1863. Furnished a good and acceptable substi-
tute to represent him in the army, for which he
paid one hundred dollars. Is engaged largely
in the manufacture of cigars. All who appre-

DeWitt Guard, 119

date a good cigar, and who indulge in this lux-
ury, should try the brand manufactured by our
friend Hoyt.

L. P. Kennedy, Merchant, enlisted June 9th
1863. We envy no man his task were he com-
pelled to find, in this lower sphere, a more con-
sistent, upright and generous man, or a more
devoted, faithful and exemplary soldier, than
Corporal L. P. Kennedy ; always at the drills,
invariably present at all parades, and never ab-
sent at the meetings of the Company. He was
represented in the United States army by a good
and faithful substitute.

He is engaged in a general dry-good and fancy
trade, and is receiving a liberal share of the
public patronage.

E. M. Latta, Turner, enlisted September 2d,
1863. Corporal Latta is one of the members
that the Company, and all who feel an interest
in its welfare, are greatly indebted to. One of
the most punctual and regular attendants at all
the meetings, drills and parades ; so much so,
that it is the remark of those present, when the
Corporal is absent, that something serious is the
matter. A finer soldier never shouldered a gun,
a perfect gentleman, a splendid mechanic, and

120 History of the

a citizen respected by all who know him. One
of the best shots in the Company, invariably
taking a prize at the target shoots. He vol-
unteered and was mustered in the United States
service with the Company in 1864. No more
faithful or better soldier ever swore in the ser-
vice, always ready to do any thing he was called
upon, and many times did double duty to relieve
others whom he thought not as well able to per-
form the labor as himself. The attachments
formed by members of the Company while at El-
mira, will long be remembered, and the name of
Corporal Latta will stand high upon the list of
those who rendered many kindnesses, and was
always so willing to do any thing for his com-
rades that would tend in any way to meliorate
their condition. He was detailed several times
and sent with detachments of troops to the front,
and in all his trips never lost a man. Served
the full term of his eulistment and was honora-
bly discharged.

John Shaw, Student, (date of enlistment not
recorded). A very active member ; joined the
Company when a mere boy and filled the posi-
tion of marker. As soon as he was of suitable
age and size, he shouldered his gun and became

DeWitt Guard. 121

a regular member ; he served well and faithfully
until he left his home to attend college.

We believe it is his intention to devote him-
self to the ministry.

M. G. Phillips, Blacksmith, enlisted Septem-
ber 2d, 1863. Mr. Phillips was an honored and
respected member, a good soldier, and a consci-
entious man. He died December 26th, 1864.

Fred. Greenly, Student, enlisted September
2d, 1863. A young man of fine attainments,
and a splendid soldier. He served with the
Company as long as he was a resident of the
place.

Is now a Professor in the Military Academy
at Eaglewood, New Jersey. Received his first
military education in this Company, a-nd was
under the instruction of Colonel K. S. Yan-
Yoorhees.

William K. Stansbury, Book-Keeper, enlist-
ed September 2d, 1863. Served as marker in
the Company until September, 1864, when he
resigned.

Frank Perry, Confectioner, enlisted Septem-
ber 3d, 1863. Was a good member, and served
faithfully until he removed from the district.

Is now a resident of the city of Syracuse.

6

122 History of the

C. R. Baldwin, Furniture Dealer, enlisted
October 8th, 1863. Furnished a substitute who
represented him with the Company in the United
States service, for which he paid one hundred
dollars. Is engaged in the most extensive
Furniture trade of any establishment in the
county.

James Patterson^ Cigar-Maker, enlisted Oc-
tober 8th, 1863. Served with the Company un-
til he volunteered in the United States army.
He was a good soldier, and received a number
of promotions in the army. Was engaged in
many battles, an account of which we are un-
able to give.

Eugene E. Barnard, Clerk, enlisted October
8th, 1863. Son of Professor M. R. Barnard,
and nephew of John Barnard, the hero of Look-
out Mountain. By reason of his superior quali-
fications as a soldier, was honored by being elect-
ed Corporal, which office he now holds, and ful-
fills the duties required of him as such with per-
fect satisfaction. He volunteered with the Com-
pany in the U. S. service, and served his full
time with honor. Was most a capital fellow in
camp ; always performed his duty well, and was
honorably discharged with the Company on the

DeWitt Guard. 123

expiration of their term of service. The Com-
pany can ill afford to lose Corporal Barnard.

John C. Cleveland, Fmmiture Dealer, en-
listed October 8th, 1863. Served but a short
time.

Linus S. Mackey, Painter, enlisted March
5th, 1864. Mr. Mackey was a good soldier, as
may be inferred from the fact of his promotion
from the ranks of this Company to Sergeant of
the Engineer Corps of the 50th Regiment.

He enlisted in the United States army August
6th, 1862, at Ithaca, and attached himself to
Company D, 143d, New York Volunteers ; was
soon promoted to Sergeant. He served in the
army until September 16th, 1863, at which time
he was honorably discharged, by reason of disa-
bility from disease of the lungs contracted while
in the army.

M. M. Brown, Physician and Surgeon, enlist-
ed March Tth, 1864. Doctor Brown joined this
Company out of pure patriotic and christian
motives, supposing that the government would
accept the services of the Company when offered,
which offer was twice tendered the government
during the short time he was connected with the
Company. Believing that they were not to be

124 History op the

called upon to defend tlie honor and integrity
of the country, the Doctor furnished an accepta-
ble substitute, and was, by reason of his profes-
sion, relieved from further membersliip.- The
Doctor is engaged in a very successful practice
in our village and is one of the Coroners of the
county.

Stephen F. Lewis, Artist, enlisted June 7th,
1864. Mr. Lewis is most an acceptable mem-
ber. Is temporarily absent in the city of New
York perfecting himself in his favorite art. He
served with the Company through the Elmira
campaign, and was a true soldier.

We hope our comrade will soon be again
with us.

Theodore Deschner, Gun-Smith, enlisted
June 22d, 1864. Mr. Deschner was originally
from Danzig, Prussia Proper ; was engaged five
years in the Prussian service ; was promoted
from the ranks to a non-commissioned line of-
fice, and again to Captain, and served as such
from 1848 to 1850. He received a severe wound
while bravely charging with his men in a sharply
contested fight in the Province of Posen in 1849.
From the effects of this wound Mr. Deschner
has never recovered, and will, in all probability,

DeWitt Guard. 125

be a sufferer during life. In 1850 he was en-
gaged against the Austrians. In 1854 he was
again called into the service of his country, but
suffering so acutely from his wound he resigned
his office and came to this country and located in
the city of- Rochester, where he resided seven
years ; here he organized a Rifle Company. Fi-
nally upon the urgent solicitation of a number
of citizens of this place, he removed here in 1861,
and has been engaged in the manufactory of
Guns and Pistols. He has the reputation of do-
ing the finest work of any mechanic engaged in
his branch of trade in the State ; constantly re-
ceiving orders from the Eastern States, and his
"Western customers have not forgotten him. Has
constantly on hand an extensive assortment of
Guns, Pistols and Fishing Tackle.

Yery soon after joining the DeWitt Guard,
he was chosen Company Standard Bearer ; later
was appointed by Colonel Barto Regimental
Gunner. Has been for the last three years Com-
pany Armorer, and all who have visited the
Armory, and at all examined tlie guns and ac-
coutrements, can testify to his qualifications for
this office. He is probably one of the best,
if not the best, marksman in Tompkins County,

126 History of the

always taking a prize at the target shoots of
the Company.

Mr. Deschner is a very worthy, upright and
honest citizen, and is well entitled to all the
honors that have been bestowed upon him.

Walter C. Steel, Student, enlisted June 22d,
1864. Mr. Steel is a young man that commands
the respect and esteem of all his acquaintances.
He enlisted in this Company as musician, but he
is at all times ready to perform any duty in a
military way that he may be called upon to do.
He is not only an expert with the drum, but few
can excel him in the tactics, is perfectly famil-
iar not only with all the calls with the drum,
but can go through the drill equally well. He
volunteered in the United States service with
the Company, and well did he serve out the
whole of his time ; 'of all the musicians at El-
mira none could compete with Mr. Steel. He
is a young man of much promise, and the whole
Company wish him great success in whatever
profession he may adopt.

George R. Willlvms, Yice-President Mer-
chants' & Farmers' National Bank, of Ithaca, en-
listed July 13th, 1864. For a perfect sample
of au honest, upright, conscientious, as well as

DeWitt Guard. 127

active, energetic and successful young man, we
produce Mr. Williams. Notwithstanding his of-
ficial duties, he endeavors to be present at the
drills and meetings, and is an invaluable member.
He volunteered in the service of the General Gov-
ernment with the Company in 1864. They were
soon deprived of his services, by reason of his
being detailed as chief Clerk at Head-Quarters.
He however remained with them in camp, fre-
quently volunteering to appear with them on
dress-parade and during inspections. No man
stood higher, or commanded more respect in
Elmira, than Mr. Williams.

H. E. Smith, Clerk, enlisted August 29th,
1864. Discharged July 7th, 1865 ; served with
the Company at Elmira.

T. H. Griffith, Miller, enlisted September
1st, 1864. A particular favorite with all the
members at Elmira. Was Company cook, and
no man could make army rations taste better
than our friend Griffith. He served as a mem-
ber until some time after the Company returned
from Elmira, when, on account of his residence
being in another district, he was honorably dis-
charged.

H. L. Miller, Farmer, enlisted September

128 History of the

1st, 1864. Harlev was well liked b}^ all the
men at Elmira — and withal he was a first rate
soldier. Although a resident of another dis-
trict, is still connected with the Company.

J. W. Browx, Clerk, enlisted September 1st,
1864. Brother of M. M. Brown, M. D., whose
substitute he was. Served faithfully with the
Company through the Elmira campaign ; was a
good soldier, and a young man of much promise.

Charles R. Sherwood, Clerk, enlisted Sep-
tember , 1864. Charley was a good young

man, and was just as good a soldier. Served
the full term of his enlistment with the Compa-
ny at Elmira. Upon his return, removed to the
city of Buffalo.

Martin Besimer, Student, enlisted, December
26th, 1864. A good soldier and a very fine
young man. Served with the Company until
very recently, when he removed from the district.

Aaron Osborn, Clerk, enlisted February
27th, 1865. Mr. Osborn is one of the very best
members af the present day ; always present
and always prompt to meet his dues and other
obligations, and as a soldier is excelled by very
few ; as a citizen he is respected by all. He
is connected with the large Boot and Shoe

DeWitt Guard. 129

manufactory of C. Christiance <fe Son, of this
village.

W. V. Wood, Farmer, enlisted February 27tli,
1865. Discharged June, 1866.

W. H. Hall, Clerk, enlisted February 27th,
1865. Volunteered from the Company in the
United States Navy.

Charles A. Phillips, Clothing Merchant,
enlisted February 10th, 1865. Mr. Phillips is
one of the most active members ; is its present
Secretary ; every body likes Charley. Is one
of the firm of A. Phillips & Sons, extensive
Clothing manufactures. The large and increas-
ing business of their House is their best recom-
mendation.

D. N. Johnson, Book-Keeper, enlisted Febru-
ary 27th, 1865. Son of Captain Johnson and
brother of E. K., whose history has already been
noticed. One of the most respected and esteem-
ed young men of the village. A good soldier
and a good member of the Company. Is confi-
dential clerk and book-keeper with Messrs. Sey-
mour & Johnson, merchants and general dealers.

C. L. Taber, Clerk, enlisted April 5th, 1865.
Charley is a first rate boy; just as good a soldier,
and equally as good a member of the Company.

6*

130 History of the

William Hatch, Steam-Boat Steward, enlist-
ed February 10th, 1865. Any person who has
traveled the waters of Cayuga Lake, and not
heard of Billy Hatch, and not regaled themselves
with the luxuries provided by him, is probably
the very one who would deny the existence of
any such sheet of water, or would astonish us
no more were they to deny their own existence.
To confine ourselves to Mr. Hatch's qualifica-
tions as a soldier, however, would be more prop-
er in this connection ; but where a man is as
good in one position as in another, we are fre-
quently apt to digress from our subject.

The time he is obliged to be away from the
drills and meetings, he makes up by doing for
the Company very much in other directions.
One of the most prompt, as well as one of the
most generous members, has frequently paid
fines and dues or other obligations of other mem-
bers, who he thought could not afford to pay for
themselves. Although at many of our drills we
miss Mr. Hatch, still he is a member we should
be as unwilling to have leave us, as would Cap-
tain Wilcox, Captain Goodrich or the traveling
community at large, to have him resign his po-
sition on the Kate Morgan.

DeWitt Guard, 131

M. J. Barker, Express Clerk, enlisted May
4th, 1865. A very stirring and energetic young
man, and a soldier of ability. Is properly ap-
preciated by the Company he represents.

Charles F. Clark, Clerk, enlisted May 4th,
1865. Is a young man of promise, a good sol-
dier and first class salesman. Is employed in
the large dry-goods house of J. S. Granger &
Company.

George Pollay, Carpenter, enlisted Februa-
ry 1st, 1865. Served with the Company through
the term of their enlistment in the United States
army. Was there a good soldier ; was dis-
charged from the general service with the Com-
pany, and discharged from the Company soon
after.

Frank Lucas, enlisted February 1st, 1865.
A short time thereafter was discharged. Has
served in the United States army.

George M. Kimg, Student, enlisted May 31st,
1865. A perfect gentleman, and as good a mem-
ber as ever enrolled himself with the DeWitt
Guard. He joined with a full determination to
become as good a soldier as there was in the
Company. He has applied himself most tho-
roughly, and we leave for those who see the Com-

132 History or the

pany on parade to judge liow near he has reached
the goal of a soldier's ambition. Is a very fine
shot, and has taken prizes at the various target
practices.

Warren H. Lewis, enlisted June 7th, 1865.
Soon after left to seek his fortune in the oil re-
gions of Pennsylvania.

Charles W. Coxover, Farmer, enlisted June
7th, 1865. Although Mr. Conover has belonged
to the Company but little over a year, still by
strict attention, and a determination to learn,
he has become a soldier of merit. No member
is more regular, or manifests a livelier interest
in the Company than he. A stranger to many
of the members wlien he enlisted, but soon he
gained their well wishes, and to-day no one
stands higher in the estimation of the Company
than Mr. Conover.

Frank Baker, Farmer, enlisted June 7th,
1865. All that was said in relation to the last
named soldier, is perfectly in place in this in-
stance. Mr. Baker is a very attentive and ac-
tive member ; very few drills or meetings that
he is not present, although he has further to
come than any other person connected with the
Company. Such members as these will in due

DeWitt Guard. 133

time receive the promotion they have earned
and are entitled to.

Theodore J. Smith, Cigar-Maker, enlisted
June 17th, 1865. Mr: Smith is a good soldier,
havino; served a lons^ time in the United States
service, a history of which we have been unable
to obtain.

S. W. PtJRDY, Barber, enlisted June 20th,
1865. Was a much better barber than soldier ;
and althouo^h a sufficientlv 2:ood marksman to
take the first prize, still not generous enough to
pay his Company obligations before leaving the
place.

George L. Clapp, enlisted June 20th, 1865.
A fine young man and a good soldier, served his
country during the late war. An account of his
war history we have been unable to obtain.

Fitch R. Curran, Book-Keeper, enlisted Juno
20th, 1865. After a very short membership,
our friend discovered that he had not yet reached
the age of eighteen. Taking advantage of his
age he withdrew.

John F. Young, Jeweler, enlisted June 20th,
1865. Mr. Young is a gentleman of much prom-
ise and an excellent soldier. Is one of the most
active members of the Company. Is employed

131 History of the

in the large establisliment of Burritt, Brooks
& Co., the oldest House of the kind in Western
New York.

Charles E. Fisk, Book-Binder, enlisted June
28 th, 1865. Is one of the most respectable mem-
bers at the present time, and is in all respects a
fine young man. Is an employee in the estab-
lishment of Andrus, Mc Chain & Co.

Frank B. Wyckoff, Clerk, enlisted Septem-
ber 6th, 1865. Mr. Wyckoff has been, and we
hope will continue to remain, a good member of
this Company, notwithstanding a little infor-
mality in his muster. Is employed in the Dry-
Goods House of Morrison, Hawkins & Co.

M. B. Apgar, Turner, enlisted September 6th,
1865. Mr. Apgar was a fine soldier, and it was
one of the misfortunes that the Company are
constantly liable to, that he retired therefrom
by reason of changing his residence to the city
of New York. He was a United States soldier
and was connected with Company G, loth New
York Cavalry. Was engaged in all the battles
that the Regiment participated in. Enlisted at
Ithaca, July 30th, 1863, and was mustered in at
Syracuse, August 26th. He alone captured a
number of prisoners at the charge on Martins-

DeWitt Guard. 135

burg, August 21st, for which he was promoted
to Corporal, and November 9th was again pro-
moted to Sergeant. Was taken prisoner De-
cember 21st, 1864, but was soon exchanged.
Eeceived the farewell address of General Cus-
ter, May 23d, 1865, and was mustered out soon
after. We are sure Serg^nt Apgar was en-
gaged in over fourteen battles. He is remem-
bered as one of the defenders of the country.

Norman Johnson, Jr., Carpenter, enlisted
September 6th, 1865. Mr. Johnson served in
the United States army, but we have been una-
ble to procure his history for publication.

John S. Hulbert, Painter, enlisted August
24th, 1865. Mr. Hulbert withdrew from the
Company and was discharged soon after his en-
listment.

He enlisted in Company D, 137th Kegiment
New York Volunteers, August 16th, 1862, and
was with the Regiment until the capture of At-
lanta, at which time he was detailed as wagon
guard at Head-Quarters. Was mustered out of
the service June 9th, 1865. Was engaged in
the following battles : Chancellorsville, Gettys-
burg, Wauhatchie Valley, Lookout Mountain,
Missionary Kidge, Ringold, Rosacea, Dallas

136 History of the

"Woods, Pine Knob, Kenesaw Mountain, South
Mountain, Peacli Tree Creek and Atlanta. An-
other of the brave soldiers who served our Union
in the recent civil war.

S. L. Baker, Tin-Smith, enlisted September
6th, 1865. Mr. Baker is respected by all the
members of the Cofhpany ; is always punctual
at the parades, drills and meetings, and is an in-
dustrious and worthy young man. Is employed
in the extensive works of Messrs. Treman, King
& Co. Took the first prize at the July target
shoot.

Harlan Hill, Rail Road Agent, enlisted Sep-
tember 8th, 1865. Mr. Hill is the gentlemanly
Ticket Agent at the Delaware, Lackawanna &
Western Rail Road Depot in this village, a po-
sition which he fills with ability. Although not
long connected with the Company, still he has
well perfected himself in the tactics, and is a
prompt and active member.

R. W. DoDD, Cigar-Maker, enlisted October
4th, 1865. Mr. Dodd was one of the first sol-
diers that enlisted from this village. Joining
Company A, (Captain Jerome Row^e) 32d New
York Volunteers. He well and faithfully served
the full term of his enrollment, and again re-en-

DeWitt Guard. 137

listed. We regret Joeing unable to give a full
history of Mr. Dodd's military life.

Theodore Quick, Cigar-Maker, enlisted Oc-
tober 12th, 1865. Mr. Quick has succeeded in
perfecting himself as a soldier to a degree that
but few attain. Few men can excell him in
the tactics. Is an invaluable member of tlie
Company. He enlisted in the United States
army August 11th, 1862, in Company I, 109th
Regiment, and served with the Company and
Regiment until they were mustered out. Was
engaged in the battles of the Wilderness, Spot-
sylvania, Petersburg, Welden Railroad and a
number of lesser engagements.

On account of illness contracted in the army,
was three months in the hospital.

W. S. Mandeyille, Clerk, enlisted October
12th, 1865. Considering the time he has served
Mr. A[andeville is one of the best soldiers we
know of, prompt, energetic and capable, we think,
of commanding a Company or a Regiment. Im.-
mediately upon joining the Company, he mani-
fested an interest, and with a determination to
learn he attended every drill, and aside from
this would by himself study tlie tactics, until he
became perfectly posted in the science of milita-

138 History of the

ry. He is a young man of much promise, and
is the exemplification of a perfect gentleman.
Is employed in the large Drug Store of Messrs.
Schuyler & Curtis, and enjoys the confidence
and respect, not only of his employers, but of
the whole circle of his acquaintances, and the
very many patrons of the House with which he
is engaged.

J. J. Mitchell, Merchant, enlisted October
12th, 1865. Mr. Mitchell beareth the same simi-
larity to the last named member, that one pea
beareth to another. As long as he was a resident
of the village he was invariably present at the
parades, drills and meetings of the Company.
He is now a citizen of Lansing, but retains his
membership in this Company, and meets with
them on all parades. He is engaged in the Dry-
Goods trade at Ludlowville, and is probably do-
ing the greatest amount of business of any house
of the kind — outside of the village of Ithaca —
in Tompkins County.

Clark Fralick, enlisted October 5th, 1865.
He enlisted July 20th, 1862, in the United States
army, in which he served three years in Compa-
ny D, 143d New York Volunteers ; was engaged
in six battles ; was not sick a day while in the

DeWitT Guard. 139

service, nor ever lost an hour from bis Regi-
ment.

E. M. Thompson, enlisted October 10th, 1865.
Mr. Thompson removed from the place soon af-
ter his enlistment.

W. H. Brower, enlisted October 31st, 1865.
Signed the Roll, but never appeared at a meet-
ing or drilL

E. G. Foster, Boat-Builder, enlisted Novem-
ber 6th, 1865. Soon removed to Minnesota.

Luke Bergin, Tailor, enlisted November 10th,

1865. Manifests but a slight degree of interest
in the Company.

Arche Dresser, Harness-Maker, enlisted No-
vember 10th, 1865. Soon removed from the
district. Was a soldier, and a good one, in the
United States army.

B. Almy, Jr., Teacher, enlisted January 17th,

1866. Mr. Almy joined upon transfer from the
Enfield Company, of which he was Orderly Ser-
geant. Is a teacher of ability ; his present en-
gagement is with the Public School in this village.

John E. Clapp, Clerk, enlisted March 15th,
1866. Is one of the most attentive members at
the present time.

H. G. Stoddard, Clerk, enlisted March 29th,

140 History of the

1866. Mr. Stoddard, as will be observed, has
very recently joined, but promises to become one
of the best members of the Company.

J. H. WiLLETTS, Student, enlisted May 7th,
1866. Mr. Willetts joined the Company almost
a perfect stranger to all the members, but by his
gentlemanly deportment and perfect willingness
to learn, has gained the respect of both officers
and men.

M. McCallester, Farmer, enlisted May Ttli,
1866. His residence is so far from the village
that he is only occasionally present at the drills
and meetings, but from the eagerness he dis-
played to learn when he first became a member,
we are led to believe he will make a good soldier.

C. N. Taber, enlisted May 31st, 1866. Mr.
Taber i^romises to become a soldier of extraor-
dinary merit.

Lewis S. Neil, Painter, enlisted May 31 st, 1 866.
Although next to the last soldier enlisted in the
DeWitt Guard, we are led to believe will soon
become next to the best in his knowledge of
military ; and perhaps in this instance as in
others, the last shall be first.

JoHX Barxard, " The Hero of Lookout Moun-
tain," seized with a patriotic ardour to serve his

DeWitt Guard. 141

country in its trying period for National exist-
ence, on the 20th day of August, 1862, he volun-
teered and joined Capt. J. H. Terry's Company,
then being formed in this village. Was duly
examined and mustered into the United States
service at Binghamton, N. Y., on the 25th of
September, 1862. Was unanimously elected 8 th
Corporal of Company D. He left Binghamton
with the Regiment for the seat of war, Septem-
ber 27th.

He accompanied General Geary on a recon-
noissance to Manchester, which occupied five
days. December 10th ordered to reinforce Gen-
eral Burnside at Fredericksburg. This was the
first time our hero came within hearing of the
enemy's guns, but his courage was equal to any
emergency, and never, through the whole course
of his military life, did he turn his back to the
enemy, but always stood up and boldly battled
for the right. Sunday, December 28th, had the
first skirmish. On the 18th of January, 1863,
was detailed by Colonel Ireland as one of the
color guard of the Regiment. On the 27th
day of April, was ordered on a march, and with
eight days' rations and ninety rounds of ammu-
nition, started for the Chancellorsville battle

142 History of the

ground, where he arrived and participated in
the battles of May 1st, 2d and 3d. July 2d and
3d were engaged with the enemy upon the bloody
fields of Gettysburg. September 21th, was or-
dered to reinforce General Rosecrans at Chat-
tanooga, Tennessee. October 29th, participated
in the midnight battle of Wauhatchie. In this
engagement one out of every three of the whole
number were either killed or wounded. Color-
bearer Baker was seriously wounded, and the
colors of the Regiment fell into the hands of our
gallant Barnard, he having escaped unharmed,
although his overcoat, which was strapped upon
his back, was shot through by one of the enemy's
bullets. After this engagement he was detailed
as color-bearer of the Regiment, vice Baker
wounded.

On the 21th of November was ordered to
march flying light, with only one day's rations ;
participated in the famous " Battle above the
Clouds ;" climbing over rocks and fallen trees,
our bold and daring Sergeant succeeded in plant-
ing the colors of his Regiment on the rebel
works, amid a terrific fire from the enemy. Ser-
geant Brink, with the State colors, was shot
down upon his right, and Corporal Foot, of the

DeWitt Guard. 143

color guard, upon his left. For this brave and
heroic deed,Sergeant Barnard received the thanks
of Colonel Ireland, as well as of all the general
officers. November 25th, was eno-ao^ed in the

' CO

battle of Missionary Ridge, and November 27th
in the battle of Ringold, Georgia. January
4th, 1864, was ordered to Stevenson, Alabama.
While here Sergeant Barnard was detailed by
the Commandant of the Post and appointed
Post-Master, a very responsible position, having
the entire charge of the mail for over five thou-
sand troops. This office he held until Sherman's
campaign against Atlanta commenced, and in
May he again resumed his office in the Regiment.
Was engaged in the action at Resacca, May
15th, battle of New Hope Church, May 25th,
battle of Pine Hill, June 15th, and continued
skirmishing until June 21st, when he participa-
ted in the battle of Kolb's Farm. June 24th
battle of Kenesaw Mountain ; still continued
skirmishing with the enemy, and drove them
across the Chattahoochie River. July 20th was
in the battle of Peach Tree Creek ; also in the
siege of Atlanta, and was among the first troops
that entered the city, September 2d.

November 15th he started on the Georgia cam-

114 History of the

paign, and participated in the siege of Savan-
nah from December 11th until December 21st,
when together with the color-bearer of the 102d
New York, he hoisted the old flag upon the City
Hall in Savannah. January 27th, 1865, started
on the Carolina campaign. Was engaged in the
skirmishes at Edisto River, Lexington Court
House, S. C, and Averysboro, N. C. Ar-
rived at Goldsboro, N. C, April 1st, 1865.
Was present at the capture of Raleigh on the
14th of April.

On the 30th of April, the war having virtu-
ally closed by the surrender of Generals Lee and
Johnson, Sergeant Barnard, with his Regiment,
started homeward, arriving in Alexandria, Vir-
ginia, May 19th. Took part in the Grand Re-
view at Washington, May 24th, and on June 9th
was mustered out of the LTnited States service.

Sera'cant Barnard was ens-ao-ed in fourteen
battles, besides numerous skirmishes, which, in
times previous to the late war, would have been
considered battles of much account.

Suffering all the dangers, exposures and de-
privations of the Georgia and Carolina cam-
paigns, our Sergeant was never a day from his
Regiment, unless detailed for special duty. He

DeWitt Guard. 145

made every mile of the whole march on foot,
carrying a burden that every American soldier
knows is enough to brake down the constitution
of almost any ordinary man.

No soldier ever enlisted in the service of his
country, who is deserving of more honor than
Sergeant John Barnard.

Remember, you that staid at home and expe-
rienced none of the trials and deprivations of
w^ar, those who sacrificed their health, their lives
and their all for you, as well as every other citi-
zen of this great Republic.

8

HISTORY OF THE COMPANY.

* ■» *

The DeWitt Guard was organized in 1851,
and the first regular meeting was held Decem-
ber 31st. At this meeting a series of By-Laws
were adopted, very many of which are in opera-
tion at the present time, although there is not
at the present time a single person connected
with the organization who at that time was a
member.

J. B. Terry was elected the first Secretary,
and George H. Collins Treasurer, with Stephen
Brewer and Loren Day as Directors.

At that time the law permitted tl^ Companies
to have a certain number of supernumeraries, and
at the second regular meeting, F. Reed Dana,
W. G. Maurice, Isaac Tichenor, Julius M. Ack-
ley, Dana Fox, E. M. Marshall, John Rumsey,
George McChain and S. B. Covert, were duly
elected supernumeraries. The first out of doors
drill took place in the Park, June 23d, and lasted

14.8 History of the

two hours. The 4th day of July was duly ob-
served by the Company : a parade, at which tlie
Company did their first street firing, and a din-
ner at Colonel Seymour's Ithaca Hotel, consti-
tuted the festivities of the day. At the regular
meeting, September 2d, 1852, a note was given
to Colonel Millspaugh fpr fifty dollars, this being
the amount he advanced to pay the Armorer's
bill. On Thursday morning, September 23d,
the drum beat at five o'clock, which warned the
citizens of the near approach of the departure of
Captain Partenheimer's Company, not for the
seat of war, but for their first encampment at
Goodwin's Falls. At 9 o'clock the life-like en-
gine " Lackawanna,"with a modesty becoming the
Company to whom she belonged, introduced the
Company to his honor " William E. Dodge,"
who safely landed his " precious load of freight"
soon after at Goodwin's Landino:. After a
march of about three miles, to the music of Can-
ham's Brass Band, the camp-ground was reached ;
tents were soon pitched, colors were hoisted,
and at one P. M. were ready for our first rations ;
at two P. M. of the same day the Company pa-
raded for the first time upon a camp-ground.
The Company remained in camp one week.

DeWitt Guard. 149

Thursday November 25th, 1852, by proclama-
tion of the Governor, was observed as a day of
Thanksgiving. This being the day designated
by the fair ones of our village for the presenta-
tion of the Banner to our Company, Captain
Partenheimer's orders were responded to by a
prompt and full corps. Upon being drawn up
in line in front of the Clinton House, Hon. S. B.
Gushing, on behalf of the Ladies, in a few appro-
priate remarks, presented the Banner. Our
worthy Lieutenant Bruyn, on behalf of the Cap-
tain and his Company, returned his most sincere
and heartfelt thanks, with a few remarks highly
complimentary to him from whose hand he re-
ceived the Banner, and to those Ladies instru-
mental in making the donation. Alter a parade
through the principal streets, and giving each
Public House a round of blank cartridges, with
that good feeling ever manifested by the Com.
pany, they were dismissed by our commanding
officer. March 3d William Glenny was elected
Secretary in place of J. B. Terry, resigned.

July 4th, 1853, was duly celebrated by the
Company by an encampment tlirough the day in
the Park. August 9th the Company were in-
spected by Brigadier General Segoine, of Au-

150 History op the

burn. September 8tb, 1853, the second encamp-
ment of the Company took place at Goodwin's
Falls ; were here again reviewed by General
Segoine and Colonel D. E. Avery. On Sunday
the Company in a body attended church at Tru-
mansburg. Washington's birth-day, February
22d, 1854, was observed by the Company ; a na-
tional salute was fired by Sergeant McDonald,
loading and firing five times a minute. June
27th the committee of arrangements for the cele-
bration of the coming Fourth of July, offered the
Company thirty dollars if they would participate
in the celebration, which was promptly refused,
and the Company voted unanimously to join in
the celebration without money and without price.
Accordingly the Fourth day of July, 1854, was
duly celebrated in the true spirit of '76. The
first target shoot of the Company was held July
11th, 1854, and resulted in Sergeant McDonald
taking the first prize, L. Millspaugh the second
and S. Stoddard the third. Saturday August
26th, 1854, the Company appeared in full uniform
at 5 J o'clock, A. M., to escort the remains of their
late comrade, D. Lewis Avery, to tlieir last rest-
ing place. His remains were taken to Aurora
for interment.

DeWitt Guard. 151

Monday August 28tb, the Company started
for Camp Seneca, at Seneca Falls, where a week
was spent by them very profitably. The second
target practice was September 22d, 1854, and
Sergeant L. R. King, E. C. Fuller, M. E, El-
mendorf, Lot S. Hinds and Sergeant McDonald,
were declared the best shots, and received the
prizes accordingly. January 8th, 1855, was duly
observed by the Company ; in the evening had
supper at the Clinton House. September 6th
the Company unanimously voted to furnish uni-
forms free of expense to all new members who
would join. September 14th, 1855, K. S. Van-
Yoorhees was elected first Sergeant, L. R. King,
second Sergeant, F. K. Andrus, third Sergeant*
and James McClune, fourth Sergeant. Septem-
ber 19 th, third target shoot, the lucky ones not re-
corded. October 31st, 1855, the Company were
inspected and reviewed by General Segoine and
staff, and Colonel D. E. Avery and staff; in the
afternoon of the same day was another target
shoot. November 29th the Company escorted
the remains of their late Lieutenant, A. H. Mc-
Neil, to the Depot, being en route for the city of
Auburn. The Company held their annual meet-
ing and took supper at the Clinton House, Janu-

152 History of the

aiy 8th, 1856. May 28th L. R. King was elect-
ed first Lieutenant, in place of W. V. Bruyn, re-
signed, and Charles F. Blood second Lieutenant^
in place of A. H. McNeil, deceased.

Wednesday June 11th, 1856. The Willard
Guard of Auburn, accompanied by Scott's Cor-
net Band of Rochester, arrived on an excursion
to Ithaca. When nearing the dock they were
saluted with twenty-one guns from the DeWitt
Guard, and received by them accompanied by
the entire Fire Department of the village, and
were escorted through the principal streets to
their quarters at the Clinton House. They were
there welcomed by an appropriate speech
from J. H. Selkreg, Esq. William Shapcott, of
the Willard Guard, returning thanks on behalf
of their Company to the soldiers, Fire Depart-
ment and citizens, for the cordial manner in
which they had been received. The Willard
Guard paraded during the forenoon of the fol-
lowing day, and at five o'clock P. M. were es-
corted to the Park by the DeWitt Guard, where
they were drilled in the different evolutions of
military tactics with great credit to themselves.
On Friday morning the DeWitt Guard again
paraded and escorted their visitors to the Steam-

DeWitt Guard. 153

boat Landing. After a few speeches, a great
rivalry was kept up between the two Companies
for the last cheer, but amid the clattering of
drums it was impossible to tell which succeeded.
September 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th, the Com-
pany were encamped at Dryden ; on Friday they
were reviewed by General Segoine and staff of
Auburn. The encampment passed off with per-
fect harmony, and without any thing to mar the
good feeling which prevailed throughout. Tues-
day, December 10th, the Company escorted the
remains of their late member, Sergeant James
C. McOlune, to their last resting place. Febru-
ary 24th, upon invitation of the Pioneers of
Tompkins County, the Company paraded and
escorted that body through the principal streets
of the village. September 15th target shoot.
October 13th the Company were inspected at
Goodwin's Falls by Adjutant George H. Collins.
Upon invitation of the President of the Tomp-
kins County Horticultural Society, the Company
paraded and attended their Fair, June 3d, 1858.
Upon invitation of the Tompkins Blues, the Com-
pany visited Trumansburg and joined in cele-
brating the Fourth day of July. A very pleasant

entercainment was provided by the citizens of

8*

154 History of the

that place. July 21st the Company visited Owe-
go, and were agreeably entertained by the citi-
zens ; returned the same evening.

August 17th, 1858, the Company paraded in
honor of the successful laying of the Atlantic
Cable. August 31st, upon invitation of the Itha-
ca Fire Department, joined Avith them in proces-
sion, and escorted Cayuga Hose Company No.
4, of Auburn, to the Clinton House.

" The DeWitt Guard, accompanied by Whit-
lock's celebrated Cornet Band and several in-
vited guests, left Ithaca at 7 o'clock A. M., July
12th, 1859, on an excursion to our neighboring
city of Auburn, and to enjoy one of t\\Q pleascuit-
est trips ever experienced by any Company of
soldiers. The Company mustered two Lieuten-
ants, three color-bearers and twenty-five men.
The smiles of Heaven seemed to be upon us, and
every thing seemed given to conduce to our hap-
piness. It was indeed a lovely sight as we floated
down the beautiful Cayuga, which lay sleeping
between the banks of those noble hills, decked
in nature's verdant garb. It would have been
a lovely scene for some artist to sketch in glow-
ing colors ; but no artist could touch so tenderly
the points with which nature has adorned them.

DeWitt Guard. 155

We arrived in tiie beautiful city at half-past
twelve, amid the 'thundering voice of artillery.
Were received by the three military Companies
of the city, and were escorted by them through
the principal streets to our Head-Quarters
White's Exchange. After a capital dinner, we
were marched to Fort Hill Cemetery to visit the
grave of our lamented Lieutenant, A. H. McNiel;
an hour was spent in that beautiful cemetery. In
the evening we icere entertained at the residence
of Mayor B. F, Hall, which entertainment passed
off to tiie perfect satisfaction of all present,
Wednesday morning were called together at ten
o'clock, and accepted an invitation of the Mili-
tary Committee to visit the Prison and Insane
Asylum.

In the afternoon the Auburn Companies, to-
gether with the DeWitt Guard, paraded for
nearly two hours, after which each Company
was practiced in the Battalion movements ; the
DeWitt Guard taking the lead. Each Compa-
ny displayed a thorough discipline in military
tactics, the movements being of almost mathe-
matical precision. In the eveniug the Compa-
ny were the guests of Doctor Willard, and was
splendidly entertained at his beautiful residence

156 History op the

oa Genesee street. The Doctor is a model gen-
tleman ; truly did wc enjoy his hospitality.
From hig residence ^Ye were marched to that of
Captain Dodge of the Willard Guard, where a
splendid reception was given in honor of the De-
Witt Guard. Here we were honored with the
society of some of Auburn's fairest daughters,
their influence on us being such as (in the lan-
guage of our worthy Chaplain, Rev. W. C.
Steel) to make some ivilling captives. The Com-
pany returned late in the evening to their Head-
Quarters, highly pleased with their evening's
entertainments. Thursday morning the Company
was marched to some of the principal residences,
paying our compliments to those of whom we
had been the honored guests the evening previ-
ous. The hour of two P. M. having arrived, the
time for our departure, we were escorted to the
Depot by the military Companies together with
many citizens. Hon. A. WelJs extending our
thanks to the soldiers and citizens of Auburn,
for the kindness shown us during our visit with
them. Rev. Mr. Steel following in a few beau-
tiful and appropriate remarks, during which
tears were seen to fall from the eyes of some of
the soldiery. We had won many friends ; tho

DeWitt Guard. 157

hour of separation had arrived ; nothing could
be more expressive than the falling of a tear, the
utterance of the soul, simple yet unexpressed ; no
language could be more eloquent. We entered
the cars amid many cheers, having had proof that
pleasures enjoyed excel pleasures anticipated.

After a pleasant return trip on the lake, we
were much surprised to find our own good citi-
zens in large numbers, together with a Company
of Cavalry and tlie entire Fire Department, at
the landing ready to receive us, and escort us to
our homes. We were received with a beautiful
and eloquent speech by Marcus Lyon, Esq., which
was responded to by our Chaplain, Rev. W. C.
Steel. AVere marched through the principal
streets to our Armory, higlily pleased with our
trip. Long will this excursion be remembered
by the DeWitt Guard ; our hearts having been
united to the soldiers and people of Auburn b}'
those bonds of friendship which time shall never
efface." John C. Hazen, Secretary.

The 50th Regiment National Guard, consist-
ing of Company A, Captain P. J. Partenheimer,
Company D, of Trumansburgh, Captain Belnap,
and Company I, of Havanna, Captain Mulford,
the Regiment commanded by Colonel H. A.

158 History of the

Dowe, encamped at Itliaca, September 5th, 1859
On Friday were inspected by General Segoine
of Anburn, and Adjutant YanVoorhees, of Itliaca
The weather was fine during the encampment
every thing passed off pleasant and to the satis
faction of all concerned. Long will Camp Bur
nett be remembered by the members of the
DeWitt Guard. January 4th, 18G0, Colonel
A. E. Mather was elected a member of this Com-
pany, but was never mustered in. June 4th,
1861, the Company paraded and escorted the
Dryden Volunteers to the Depot.

July 3d the Company was presented with a
handsome stand of colors by Sergeant John C.
Hazen. April 2d, 1861, the Company tendered
tlieir services to the General Government. Au-
gust 6th, 1862, escorted volunteers to the Depot ;
three hearty cheers were given by the members
of the DeWitt Guard, for those of their number
who had volunteered in the service of their coun-
try. September 28th attended the funeral of
Lieutenant Marsh, at ^IcLean, v/ho was killed
in the army. October 28th, 1862, were inspected
at Trumansburg. December 3d Captain Blood
introduced the Bayonet Drill. February 22d,
1863, was celebrated by the Company by a pa-

DeWitt Guard. 159

rade, and a supper in the evening at the Clinton
House. March 19th attended the funeral of
Peter J. Hausner, a soldier who died from dis-
ease contracted while in the arm3^ June i7th,
1863, the Company the second time offered their
services to the Government. June 22d the Com-
pany paraded in honor of the returning volun-
teers, and escorted them through the streets of
our village. July 1st attended the funeral of
Lieutenant Avery, at Farmerville, who was killed
in the army. Celebrated the 4th day of July,
1863, by an excursion to Long Point, at which
place the Company engaged in target practice
with both muskets and artillery. Annual pa-
rade, inspection and review at Ithaca, October
2 1st, 1863. Were inspected by General Wil-
liam Glenny and Colonel H. A. Dowe, since pro-
moted to Brigadier General. Tlie Company had
another target practice same day. Washing-
ton's Birth-day, February 22d, 1864, w^as cele-
brated by a parade and supper in tlie evening at
Gregory's. April 25th, 1864, the Company for
the third time offered their services to the Gen-'
eral Government. July 4th paraded and had
target practice. Aug. 28th, the Co. was accepted
by the Gen'l Gov't for 100 days' service at Elmira.

160 History op the

(i)> B. R. W., Secretary.)

Sept. 2d, 1804. — The Company assembled at
the Armory at 6 o'clock, A. M., with tears in
their eyes and carpet-sacks in hand, to march
for Elmira. Headed by their gallant Captain,
they proceeded silently to the Depot, where the
parting was truly heart-rending, and the Secre-
tary, in order to hide his feelings, was forced to
take refuge in a freight car, and solace himself
with a fresh chew of Mike V/iclvS best. The
voyage was safely performed, the only cause of
complaint being the rye treatment which some
of the men received at Willseyville.

The grand entree at Elmira was made at
about two o'clock, P. M., where we were re-
ceived in behalf of the United States by the
brilliant and dashing Captain Colby, of the
58th, by whom, assisted by Drum-Major Robin-
son's justly celebrated martial band, we were
escorted to Barracks No. 1.

On entering the portals of this haven of rest,
our ears were saluted with cries of Fresh Fish.
Our inexperienced eyes searched eagerly ou
every side for this delectable delicacy, but we
failed to discover it. The future movements of
the Company at this post are recorded by our
worthy Sergeant, H. S.

DbWitt Guard. 161

ELM IRA CAMPAIGN.

DETAILED ACCOUNT OF THE DOINGS OF COMPANY A,

FIFTIETH REGIMENT N. G., S. N. Y., WHILE PEIl-

FORMING ONE HUNDRED DAYS' DUTY

AT ELMIRA. NEW YORK.

Taken from the Diary of one of its Members.

In pursuance of Orders as follows :

General PIe ad-Quarters State of New York, )

Adjutant General's Office, >-

Albany, Aug. 28th, 1864. )

Special Orders, Xo, 348.

Captain Charles F. Blood, commanduig Company A, of
the 50th Reg'lment National Guard of the State of JSTew York,
will, by the 5tli of September, proximo, proceed AS'ith his
command to Elmira, IS". Y., and report to Major A, S. Diven,
acting Assistant Provost Marshal General, and Superinten-
dent of the Volunteer Recruiting Service, who will muster
them into the service of the United States for one hundred
(100) days, and attach them to the 58th Regiment National
Guard, of the State of New York.

Requisition for the necessary clothing and transportation
will be made upon Brigadier General S. Y. Talcott, Quarter-
master General, No. 51 Walker Street, New York city, and

162 History of the

for arms and accoutrements njDon Brigadier General James
A. Farrell, Commissary General of Ordinance, State Arsenal,
New York city.

By order of the Commander-in-Cliief,

JOHX T. SPRAGUE,

Adjutant General.

Head-Qu.vrters 50th Regimext N. G,, S. N. Y. )
Trumansburg, N. Y., Aug. 27th, 1864. \

Special Orders, No. 3.

Above Special Order, Xo. 348, is hereby promulgated.
Captain Charles F. Blood, commanding Company "A," of
this Regiment, will immediately promulgate the above Or-
ders to his command.

Said Captain will immediately report to these Head-Quar-
ters, in writing, the strength of his command, and the num-
ber of men he will be able to report for duty at Elmii-a on
the 5th day of September, proximo.

The Captain will see the importance of this Order, when it
is stated that orders must be made at once for clothing,
transportation, arms and accoutrements, at ]S'ew York city
for his command.

By order of

COL. HEXRY D, BARTO,
Commanding 50th Reg't N. G., S. K Y.
Lewis Halset, Adjutant.

Company A, 50th Regiment National Guard,
State of New York, started at 9 o'clock on the
morning of the second day of September, 1864,

DeWitt Guard.

163

in obedience with the above order, with the fol-
lowing officers and men :

CHARLES F. BLOOD, Captain.

Levi Kenney, 1st Lieutenant.

Joseph Esty, Jr., 2d Lieutenant,

J. C. Hazen, Orderly.

CO. Greenly, 2d Sergeant,

E. M. Finch, ?jd Sergeant.

H. A. St. John, Wi Sergeant.

B. R. Williams, 1st Corporal.

Uri Clark, 2d Corporal,

J. C. Gauntlett, Zd Corporal.

Alfred Brooks, 4:th Corporal.

Frank Betts,

E. E. Barnard,
J. W. Brown,

F. Cheesbrough,
Wm. .Crittenden,
A. Dean,
James Faulkner,
John Gay,

M. L. Granger,
T. H. Griffith,
George H. Grant,
S. J. Humm,
. T. Hern,

E. K. Johnson,
J. MeKinney,
W. H. Kellogg,
S. T. Lewis,
E. M. Latta,
J. Mandeville,
E. C. Marsh.
H. L. Miller,
J. W. Norton,
C._L. O'Brien,
A. Frame,
0. S. Perry,
George Pollay,

164

History op the

W. C. Steele, E. E. Warfield,

C. R. Sherwood, Geo. R. Williams,

H. E. Smith, J. Y. Wilson,

We reached Elmira at 2 P. M. on the same
day, and were immediately marched to our
quarters at Barracks No. 1, afterwards called
the Substitute Camp. At 3J P. M. we were
mustered into the United States service as Com-
pany L, 58th Regiment N. G.,S. N. Y., Col. R.
P. Wisner commanding, and the same evening,
on the requisition of our Captain, we drew the
following articles of clothing, arms and equip-
ments, to each man :

Woolen Blanket,

Rubber Blanket,

Overcoat,

Blouse,

Pair Pants,

Cap,

Pair Drawers,
2 Pair Socks,
1 Pair Shirts,
1 Pair Shoes.

The arms served us were of tlie Enfield pat-
tern, known as rifled muskets, and were said to
have been taken off of a rebel blockade-runner.

1 Canteen,

1 Spoon,

1 Knife and Fork,

1 Cup,

1 Plate,

1 Knapsack,

1 Haversack,

DeWitt Guard. 165

which, together with the necessary belts, cap
and cartridge boxes, made as complete an outfit
as were given to any of the men serving in our
army for the preservation of the Union.

One can scarcely imagine the ridiculous pic-
ture our boys made as they tried on their new
clothes, so generously given them by " Uncle
Sam." Here in one corner you might see a six-
footer striving in vain to induce a pair of pants,
by hard pulling and stretching, to reach below
his knees, but finding no virtue in perseverance,
he seizes the coat and finds to his dismay the same
difficulty with the sleeves that he found with
the pants — namely, too short. As he sits study-
ing over his misfortune, he is hailed by another
fellow just his counterpart, hobbling across the
floor with a pair of pants so long that they
threaten to trip him at every step.

But, 0, dear ! Look at that perfect picture of
despair ; a fellow who at home wears a number
five boot, trying to make a pair of number ten
shoes stay on his feet. Presently, however, a
man is found whose fortune has dealt to him a
pair of" gun-boats" a size too small, immediately,
with trueyankee spirit, a trade is made, and
each is satisfied that he has made the best of the

166 HlSTOKY OP THE

bargain ; so by dint of exchanges, garments arc
found to fit, which at first seemed as if they had
been distributed by common consent, the small-
est men to receive those intended for the largest,
and vice versa.

But what ails that fellow over yonder ? He
looks as if he had lost his last friend, and never
expected to have another. We rush up to en-
quire the cause of his discomforture, but our
anxiety is turned into laughter, when we behold
him who had been congratulating himself on
making such a fine appearance in a suit of blue ;
brushing off the threads and dust, and picking
up one thread which seemed to be very long,
but only producing the more thread by the greater
picking, our fine fellow finds that he has venti-
lated the entire side of one of his trowsers leo^s.
Hark ! the Orderly cries " fall in for rations ;"
although we may not yet be perfectly acquainted
with all orders pertaining particularly to camp
life, yet all seem to understand this one. With
a good appetite after our fun, we start for the
mess-house. Some hungry man behind us as we
march along, hopes the beef stake will be ten-
der, and the potatoes well done, wliilc another
hints he does not like eggs too hard boiled, and

DeWitt Guard. 167

a third says lie must have his rolls hot, and good
butter to eat on them, or he don't care for any
supper ; while a fourth never eats pies, and so
of course is anxious to find a good pudding
awaiting his ravenous appetite. But misery me !
what a smell ! where does it come from ? most
certainly from the mess-house, no denying that.
As we enter, every man immediately loses his
appetite ; but bound to face the music, we all
sit down, place our cups and plates on the table,,
and await coming events. Presently there comes
a man with a basket of bread, another with a
pan of beef and a third with a pail of coffee.
Waiter No. 1 very dexterously causes a huge
chunk of bread to alight on your plate ; waiter
No. 2 makes a piece of beef perform the same
evolution, and your cup is soon filled. Here is
your meal, now make the attack. Our bread
and butter man seems patiently waiting, al-
though very pale, and is only aroused from his
stupor by a neighbor asking him if he is not go-
ing to eat ; he meekly answers, by saying he is
waiting for some sugar and milk for his coffee.
But all are soon satisfied, and we go back to our
barracks, our poor beef-steak-and-potatoe com-
panion feeling very much disappointed.

168 History of the

Our duty at the substitute camp was to per-
form the guard duty necessary to keep the men
from escaping, and also to act as guard in tak-
ing men from this post to the front. This camp
was used as a rendezvous for substitutes, to
equip them preparatory to sending them to the
army. The larger proportion of the men sent
to this post seemed to be composed of the refuse
of all society, whose entire aim seemed to have
been to enlist and desert as often as opportunity
offered. They were a lawless set of men, and
it was only by enforcing the most rigid disci-
pline, that they were kept within bounds.

When a squad of substitutes was to be taken
to the front, one or two commissioned officers
were usually detached, together with a compli-
ment of non-commissioned officers and privates,
sufficient to carefully guard against desertions
on their way. Ordinary freight cars were used
for transportation, into which were crowded
from 35 to 40 men, allowing five men in each
car as a guard. It was a shameful way of treat-
ing human beings, crowded together for two
days with barely room to move in, and being
required to assume all manner of positions at
niglit in order to get a little rest. Although

DeWitt Guard. 169

sufficient rations were purported to be issued
for the journey, yet they never sufficed, and the
men often suffered from hunger. Yet in timo
Baltimore was reached, where all the men were
generally put into comfortable quarters for a
day or so, and then placed on board transports
to be taken to different points on the Potomac
or James Rivers.

These transports were often condemned, or at
least unsafe vessels in the employ of the Gov-
ernment, with no conveniences for the accommo-
dation of the number of men crowded on them.
The writer had the misfortune to be on one of
these miserable crafts. On the night of Friday,
Sept. 9th, we left Baltimore with 1100 men, en
route for City Point, on an old condemned
Endish emio-rant steamer. We were 55 hours
making the trip (more than twice as long as we
should have been), and twice the vessel was
turned to be run ashore, as she leaked so badly,
and the pumps giving out for a time, it was
feared by her commander the water might put
out the fires under the boilers, and at no time
could the old tub be kept on an even keel.
There were only a few casks of water, and no
provisions of any kind on board. The rations

170 History of the

issued to the men on starting were all gone long
before wc reached our destination, and not a
little suffering was experienced by the poor fel-
lows for want of something to eat. This is but
one of many instances in which one portion of
the men in the Government employ were made
to suffer by the neglect and ill-treatment of
another portion.

But to return to our camp at Elmira. Our
duties were about the same thing every day ;
doing guard duty when it came our turn for
detail, with the diversion of an occasional squad
to the front. This began to be an old story to us,
and we had to use our best endeavors to get up
some little excitement to break the monotony
of camp routine.

On the afternoon of Saturday, Sept. 10th,
orders were issued to our Regiment to move to
Barracks No. 3, without delay. It was a rainy
day, and all felt more like staying quietly in
the barracks than like packing up and moving ;
yet go we must, and go we did. The last squad
left at 8 o'clock in the evening. Tents, of
which each Company had twelve, including one
officer's wall tent, were pitched for the night,
and all made themselves as comfortable as pos-

DeWitt Guard. 171

sible. In tlie morning, although it had ceased
raining, it was very wet, and the nature of the
ground made it very uncomfortable. We ar-
ranged our camp with a little more care, build-
ing a stockade of boards two feet high, on
which we pitched each tent, and also making a
floor on the bottom. Later in the season we
provided each tent with either a camp-stove or
fire-place, which made our quarters very com-
fortable, even in the severest weather.

We also built a cook-house capable of seating
our entire Compan}^, and furnished it with a
good stove and such other apparatus as was
necessary to carry on our culinary operations.
We were indeed the envy of the entire Brigade,
and it is undoubtedly true that by our own ex-
ertions we possessed the best arrangement for
promoting our own comfort of any Company on
the ground. We were enabled by our advan-
tages to provide all the variety possible with
the rations served us. There was hardly a day
but we were supplied with some delicacy
by the kindness of our officers, that was not on
the regular bill of fare. Indeed, our Table
d'Hote gained such a notoriety, that in less than
two weeks we had some of the staff officers as

172 History of the

regular boarders, and our wortliy Colonel con-
sidered it quite an honor when we gave him a
standing invitation to partake of any meal with
us when he did not see fit to go to his boarding
house — an invitation that he often accepted and
seemed quite to enjoy.

Our principal duty at Barracks 3, or the rebel
camp, as commonly called, although the correct
name was Camp Chemung, was to guard the
rebel prisoners confined at this post. Almost
every day, however, men were detailed and sent
off on extra duty. The prison was formed of a
stockade built of boards 14 feet long, placed
perpendicularly on a fence frame, having the
posts on the outside, thereby giving a perfectly
smooth surface on the inside, quite impossible to
scale. There were two entrances to the enclo-
sure, one called the Main Gate, which was placed
on front, and was the principal means of en-
trance, the other was called the Eear Gate,
and placed at the rear of the prison on the river
bank. All around this stockade, four feet from
the top, there was a platform and railing for the
guard to walk on, with sentry boxes about 240
feet apart. Besides the guard "on the fence,"
there was a line of sentinels on the ground out-

DeWitt Guard. 173

side the stockade. During the day men armed
with revolvers were posted at different points
in the enclosure, and at night were formed into
a patrol guard. This patrol walked around
the entire enclosure about 15 feet from the
stockade, there being an interval of three min-
utes of time between each man. The guard on
the fence and those outside were relieved every
two hours ; the patrol was relieved every four
hours. It was the duty of the guard to chal-
lenge any of the prisoners who were approach-
ing the stockade, a second challenge was given
if the first was not sufficient, and if they still
persisted and were evidently trying to effect
some means of escape, the order was to fire on
them and give the alarm.

There were about 300 men detailed for duty
each day. These consisted of eight commissioned
officers, 32 non-commissioned officers, and 260
privates. This number was distributed to four
different positions, allowing an equal number of
officers to each, but the men were apportioned
to each post according to the amount of duty to
be done.

The guard was formed and reviewed each
morning at 8 o'clock, preparatory to going on

174 History of the

duty ; the new guard usually relieved the guard
of the previous day at 10 o'clock, and were kept
on duty 2-1 hours. Each squad was under com-
mand of two officers, and was divided into three
reliefs ; these reliefs alternated with each other
in a duty of two hours, thus allowing each man
four hours' re?t out of six.

The field officer of the day was accustomed to
make a complete tour of the camp during the
day, and usually visited each guard post at least
once during the night. Whenever he was seen
approaching any of the principal posts, the en-
tire guard had to be turned out in order to be
inspected and reviewed by him.

During the night, from 8 o'clock in the even-
ing until 6 in the morning, every half hour was
called by the guard on the fence, at the same
time giving the number of each post and the
word •' All's well."

The prisoners were divided into companies,
each company being under the charge of an offi-
cer detailed for that purpose. Roll was called
morning and evening, at one of which tlie officer
was required to be present and to make a daily
report to the commandant of the post. Two
meals per day were given the prisoners, one at

DeWitt Guard. 175

8 A. M. and one at 3 P. M. They were fur-
nished with good, wholesome food, prepared in
an immense cooking establishment. Each com-
pany marched to this house at the regular hours,
and were served with their rations, going im-
mediately back to their quarters to eat them.

Several large and commodious hospitals were
provided for the sick, arranged with all possi-
ble convenience, and attended by a corps of
competent Surgeons.

One might draw a grand comparison between
the way in which our men were treated in the
different prisons of the South, and the treatment
of rebels at the hands of our Government. We
who have seen the worn-out, hobbling rebel
prisoner, go forth exchanged, after a few months^
imprisonment, a strong and healthy man, cannot
but feel the contrast when we see old friends,
who, months ago were freed from Southern
prisons, even now unable to stand the burden
of any daily toil, and still wearing in their
deep-lined faces the marks of past hardships.
And when we think of those who once filled
the vacant places in our homes and in our hearts,
who mio-ht now be with us but for such hard-
ships, we can reflect only with shuddering upon

176 History of the

the treatment they have received, and feel
grateful that we are at peace again. Yerily,
many a tale that we might tell were better left
untold.

On the morning of Friday, Oct. Tth, one of
the guard on the outside of the fence discovered
a hole, through which it was evident some of
the prisoners had escaped. The alarm was
given, but it was too late. On investigation
there were found to be 16 prisoners missing.
They had made a tunnel about four feet under
ground and sixty odd feet long, large enough to
allow a man to crawl through. The night in
which they made their escape was very dark
and stormy, and taking advantage of this, they
completed their excavation, crawled through,
and were free.

This mode of escape "Vv^as afterwards often
tried, but the above is the only instance in
which any reward was obtained for the great
amount of work thus expended. A fellow put
into practical operation one day a novel method
of escaping. It was customary on the death of
any of the rebels, to carry them to the dead-
house; here the bodies were placed in coffins,
marked, and a register kept. From the prison

DeWitt Guard. 177

they were carried to the burial-ground, where
the coffins were placed in long trenches, with a
head-board marked to correspond with the reg-
ister kept at the prison. One day one of the
assistants at the dead-house arranged with one
of his fellows to be placed in a coffin, and have
the lid lightly nailed on. He was carried to
the burial-ground, and unloaded with the other
bodies. As soon as the cart drove off, our
sharp fellow easily kicked the lid off and made
good his escape.

Our camp life was beginning to be very mo-
notonous. Eacli day the same routine was ob-
served, and we were at our wit's end to pro-
duce some sort of amusement. We were pro-
vided, however, with the following incident
which served us as a fund for some days : On
the night of October 15th, all the camps being
quiet, and no sound coming through the still night
air, save the steady tread of the guard, or the
hoarse, hollow cough of the prisoners, at 11
o'clock we were all suddenly aroused from our
slumbers by the report of the alarm gun, the long
roll soon followed and instantly the officers were
out ordering the men quickly into line, each Com-
pany was marched on the parade ground on a

178 History of the

double quick, the line soon formed and every thing
was in readiness awaiting orders. Presently an
orderly came riding up assigning to our Regiment
a position, then quickly to another camp he went,
and we started at quick time for our position,
just as we set off the battery came thundering
down the road, the bugle sounded, men dismount-
ed, pieces were unlimbered, quickly loaded, and
ready for action. From the opposite direction
came more field pieces which formed a battery
just in front of our halting place, then by us rushed
a "Regiment, and to us again came the orderly,
and we were divided, one Battalion went in one
direction and the other in an other. Thus the
different commands were manoeuvred for about
an hour, finally a rest being allowed, the men be-
gan to enquire if we had not been " sold," as it
was evident there was no disturbance in the
prison camp nor any signs of an outbreak. But
no one could give a solution to the problem, un-
til the next morning we found it was all done
by our Brigade Commander, to see what reliance
could be placed on the men in case of an emer-
gency.

In pursuance of orders received a day or two
previous, our Regiment, together with the entire

DeWitt Guard. 179

Brio-ade, started at noon of October lOtli for the
general parade ground, to take part in a Bri-
gade review, it was an informal affair and cnly
occupied two hours, it was a sort of preliminary
or drill to fit us for a grand review to take place
some time in the next month.

Messrs. Tolles and Burritt came over from
Ithaca, reaching camp the morning of October
20th, to take views in and about the camps, they
succeeded in getting a great many tine views of
the different positions occupied by the troops.

At inspection on the morning of October 23d,
orders were issued to each Regiment, to hold
themselves iji readiness to fall in at a moment's
notice. It was understood that Governor Sey-
mour was in the city and would visit the differ-
ent camps during the day. It being unknown
at what time we would have to fall in, our boys
went about the camp with their equipments on,
ready to take their places in line at the first call.
In the afternoon at 3 o'clock the roll was sounded
and our Regiment was soon in line, presently
Gov. Seymour and a few members of his staff,
accompanied by some of the post officers, passed
and were saluted by the Regiment ; there was
no pretentious show of any kind, merely a rec-

180 History of the

ognition and compliment to the Commander-in-
Chief of the'State forces.

On the evening of October 24th, our boys ar-
rainged one of their characteristic performances
— a minstrel show. We had indeed acquired a
great reputation during our life in camp for be-
ing possessed of an inexhaustable store of fun,

ft

and had the material for engaging in anything
that might offer which could be turned into a
source of amusement.

On the evening mentioned we built a staging
of rather large dimensions of material furnished
us by the Quarter-Master of tlie Regiment, stick-
ing bayonets in the ground witli a candle placed
in them to serve as foot-lights, seats were pro-
vided for our audience, and every convenience
added as far as possible in order to make our
entertainments popular. We were richly re-
warded on this occasion as our performances
had been growing very much in favor, and on
this night many came up from the city in car-
riages until we had an audience of which many
a more worthy showman might have been proud.

It would be impossible to enumerate all the
sources of fun that were introduced and carried
out, but it is sufficient to sav that there was not

DeWitt Guard. 181

an hour in the day but that one might enjoy a
hearty laugh over the pranks of one or more of
the boys.

The 2d of November was a great day among
the different Regiments stationed at Elmira.
A grand review had been ordered to come off
at noon, to consist of all the troops not on duty,
to be reviewed by General Diven and staff.
There were nine Regiments and two Batteries
on the field, viz: the 12th Regulars, 1st Y. R.
C, the 54th, 56th, 58th, 77th, 98th, 99th, 102d
Regiments N. G., the 4th Regulars, and Roch-
ester Batteries. The line was formed at noon,
on the large field in the rear of the regular
parade ground. Soon after, General Diven and
staff came on the ground, receiving the custom-
ary salute from the Batteries. We were
marched in review, first at common time, then
at quick time. After going through some minor
evolutions, we were dismissed, reaching our
camps just before 6 o'clock. Everything passed
off well, and the reviewing officers expressed
themselves highly satisfied with the appearance
of the men, and their proficiency in drill.
There were about 4,500 men of all grades, who
took part in the review, and those who wit-

182 History op the

nessed the parade considered it a fine. affair, as
well as being- a creditable appearance of our
State troops.

It was now drawing near the time when a
great many of the Regiments were to be mus-
tered out of service, having served the time for
which they enlisted.

On the 3d of November the 54th Rpgimcnt
was mustered out, and left for home. On the
5th, the 56th, 77th, and 99th Regiments were
also dismissed from service, and each set out for
their respective homes. This made our duties
very much harder, as no troops were furnished
in plate of those leaving; consequently those
who remained had to do double duty. We did
not mind that much, however, as we knew our
time would soon come for going home ; although
it would be near the middle of December before
our 100 days were completed, yet our time was
out with that of the remainder of the Regiment,
who were mustered in some 20 days before we
were.

The evening of November 16th was occupied
by our Company in giving an oyster supper as
a complimentary entertainment to the officers of
the Regiment. The table was set and supper

DeWitt Guard. 183

served in our cook-house. Among our guests
we had the Colonel and staff, and nearly all tlie
line otficers of our Regiment, together with sev-
eral members of other Regiments. Everything
passed off finely, and both guests and hosts
seemed to enjoy the evening's fun to the fullest
extent.

It was fully expected by the authorities that
the Regiment would be relieved from duty by
the 20th of November, but all hopes of reaching
home before the first of the following month
were given up, for we certainly could not be
spared until some Regiment should come to take .
our place, as there were barely men enough to
do the duty required, and even those were vir-
tually over-worked. It made little difference
with us, however, as v/e had some time yet to
serve, but then we had expected to be relieved
from duty the same as the rest of the command
to which we were attached, and felt some little
disappointment at the delay. All were anxious
to be home at Thanksgiving, the 24th of Novem-
ber, to eat the time-honored roast turkey and
plum pudding, but we found it was of no use to
raise any expectations, as they were not to be
realized. We were not forgotten, however.

13 i History op the

There arrived from home the night before sev-
eral boxes and barrels, well filled with all the
delicacies, as well as substantials, that are ne-
cessary to makeup a grand Thanksgiving dinner.
These were spread and partaken of by our boy
with seemingly as much pleasure as if we had
been at home.

After many disappointments and vexatious de-
lays, orders were issued on the 1st of December
to the effect that any Company having the proper
papers drawn up and showing no deficiency as
regarded equipments, should be mustered out on
the 2d day of December, or as soon thereafter as
all necessary papers were completed.

You may imagine that a great amount of writ-
ing w^as done during that night, as the next
morning found us ready for the mustering officer.
Quite early in the morning we began to pack up
and make preparations to break camp.

At 10 A. M. the Captain was in possession of
the Quarter-Master's and Ordinance officers' re-
ceipts for arms, accoutrements and camp equipage
returned, and at 11 A. M. we w^ere mustered out
of the United States service, having been Uncle
Sam's boys in blue just ninty-two days. We
soon after set off for the Depot with what bag-

DeWitt Guard. 185

gage we had, and at 7 P. M. reached Owego
where we had to remain until morning.

At about 7 o'clock we were in sight of home
and soon at the Depot, here we were received
by a large number of citizens and marched di-
rectly to the Armory where we were welcomed
home in a short speech by M. R. Barnard, neatly
responded to by Captain Blood, after which we
separated to don a citizen's attire and citizen's
employment.

Although our three months' work, in the mere
point of dollars and cents, was a loss to every
man, yet I doubt if there is one who regrets hav-
ing spent this much time in the government ser-
vice. Each man received a res:ular discharg-e
which in years hence he may refer to with some-
what of pride at the thought of having done even
his mite in serving his country and contributed
a little towards suppressing the rebellion. We
were regularly enlisted in the United States
army, and subject in every particular to the same
treatment and usage as any of the men in the
government employ. Our duty, it is true, was
not attended with any of the dangers wliich ac-
companied the duties of the men in the field, yet
it was work that had to be done, and could be

186 History of the

as well i)erformed by State troops as to take
veterans from the field. Our Company as a
whole were well treated in every instance, enjoy-
ing many advantages which the social position
of the members secured to them, and we were
allowed privileges which were hardly expected;
in fact our standard of capabilites was raised so
high that our men were constantly being detailed
for some special duty, requiring men of more
than ordinary intellect and foresight to accom-
plish. Soon after moving to Barracks No. 3
two of our men were detached from the Company
and placed in the capacity of chief Clerks at
Brigade Head-Quarters, another was made Clerk
and Assistant to the Post Inspector, each retain-
ing his responsible position during our stay in
camp. Another was appointed to the position
of Ordinance Sergeant, while a fifth member held
the rank of Sergeant Major for a number of
weeks, during the absence of the regular occu-
pant of that ofiice. Any one at all acquainted
with the duties devolving upon an occupant of
either of these offices, may judge of the honor ex-
tended our Company, and the preference shown
its particular members, by the appointments to
such positions of responsibility and trust.

DeWitt Guard. 187

It may be a fact worthy of mention, that
there was not a duty imposed on our men that
was not promptly fulfilled ; every detail called
for was forthcoming, and that, too, without hes-
itation or caviling, which was so common among
a large number of the Companies. This is the
more noticeable, as during the last few weeks
of our stay at Elmira our boys were called on
to do double duty. There were so many of the
Regiments going home, and no provision made
for supplying their places, yet every duty was
cheerfully performed, although some men did
40 hours actual duty out of 48.

Every man had a pride in keeping everything
in and about our quarters scrupulously clean.
Our cook-house, with all its cooking apparatus^
presented the appearance of a model kitchen,
and each tent was swept and arranged with all
the care that could have been taken by a tidy
house-wife.

In appearance and proficiency of drill, as a
Company, we soon attained a place second to
none, and which we easily retained against all
competitors.

Through the exertions and faithfulness of our
officers, we had the pleasure of receiving from

188 History of the

Captain Carpenter, the Post Inspector, the
compliment that we were finest in appearance,
and most proficient in drill, of any of the Com-
panies stationed at Camp Chemung.

Our officers were ever watchful to promote
the comfort and best interest of the men, striv-
ing in a hundred different ways to lighten the
duties imposed on the men, providing everything
in their power to relieve the sick, besides, at a
personal expense, contributing many articles of
fcod or camp furniture, so that, by their exer-
tions, the irksomeness of our duties was de-
stroyed, and every man considered it more of a
pleasure than an obligation to obey their com-
mands.

We were sorry to part with many of our own
Eegiment, as well as members of other com-
mands with whom we had formed an acquaint-
ance, much to our profit, but our work had been
done, and we were lionorably discharged, re-
turning home feeling that the time had been
well spent, and with no regrets that we had
been in the United States service for three
months.

DeWitt Guard. 189

December 26th a delegation of the Company
attended the funeral of M. G. Phillips, a late
member. January 5th. — Annual meeting and
supper at Captain Esty's. Washington's Birth-
day, February 22d, 1865, was duly honored by
the Company by a parade. May 28tli — Attend-
ed the funeral of the late Lieutenant Georofe
Fisk. June 27th — Were inspected at Trumans-
burg by Colonel H. D. Barto. July 7th — A
number of members were expelled for violation
of By-Laws. Attended the funeral of Captain
Bartholemew, at Etna^ who was killed in the
United States service. August 3d — Attended
the funeral of Major Belcher, who died from
disease contracted while in the army of the
United States. Target shoot August 15th,
1865. The prizes were taken and awarded as
follows :

1st. William S. Crittenden — a splendid Re-
volver, presented by Captain Esty.

2d. Walter C. Steel — a pair of rich, gold-
lined Silver Goblets, presented by Lieutenant
John C. Hazen.

3d. L. S. Mackey — a beautiful Silver Castor,
presented by the Sergeants of the Company.

4th. Sergeant E. M. Finch — an English sil-

190 History op the

ver-steel, pearl handle Pocket Knife, presented
by L. R. King, Esq.

5th. Geo. E. Williams — bottle of French
Perfumery, presented by Geo. E. Halsey, Esq.

Gth. John Young — a magnificent box of Her-
ring, presented by J. B. Taylor & Co.

7th. Geo. M. King — a Glass Pipe, presented
by Messrs. J. B. Taylor & Co.

After the prizes were awarded, Captain Esty
was presented with a magnificent sword, belt,
sword-knot and case, by Capt. B. R. Williams,
on behalf of the members and ex-members of the
Company.

The Company was reviewed and inspected
by Colonels H. D. Barto and K. S. YanVoor-
hees, at Trumansburg, Oct. 19th, 1865. Janua-
ry 23d, attended the funeral of Chief-Engineer
Joseph Sidney, U. S. N., who died while in the
service of his country.

We now come in the history of the Company
to the dedication of the new Armory and Drill-
Room, which are located in the Cornell Librarv
building, and which were dedicated by one of
the finest entertainments ever given in Ithaca,
February 10th, 1866, at which time the Compa-
ny were assisted by Miss Louise St. John, Mrs.

DeWitt Guard. 191

J. S. Granger, Miss A. McCorniick, Mrs. Jo-
seph Esty, Jr., and Miss Frankic Atwater ; also
Gen. H. A. Dowe, Gen. William Glcnny, Col.
Charles F. Blood, Col. K. S. YanYoorhees,
Capt. B. R. Williams, Quar. Mas. J. C. Heath,
Hon. B. G. Ferris, Hon. James B. Taylor, F. M.
Finch, Esq., F. K. Audrus, Esq., Charles Cur-
tis, Esq., Edward Hall, Esq., Thomas Crane,
Esq., Edward Moore, Esq., L. Y. B. Maurice,
Esq., Elijah Cornell, Esq., and Master Fred.
Summers.

The entertainment was liberally patronized
by the citizens of Ithaca, enabling the Company
to cancel a large proportion of the indebtedness
incurred in furnishing their Armory. The ex-
penditures of the Company in this direction, and
expense attending their exhibition, was six hun-
dred and twenty-eight dollars and fifty-four
cents.

The present indebtedness of the Company is
less than two hundred dollars, which amount
they hope to cancel entirely by the profits on
the sales of this History.

The furniture of the Armory will compare,
we think, with any room in the Library. A fine
photographic likeness of each of the officers of

192 History of the

the Company, token by tlie celebrated Artists,
Messrs. Beardsley Brothers, occupy a prominent
position. The Drill-Room is one of the finest
in the State. For the present superior advan-
tages enjoyed by the Company, they are muck
indebted to Hon. Ezra Cornell, whose name is
connected with every enterprise which has in
view the prosperity of our village.

We have endeavored to give, as we stated at
the commencement, a full, true and concise his-
tory of the DeWitt Guard, our task is comple-
ted ; and in closing, we only ask that a gener-
ous public will remember the present and for-
mer members of this Company, who sacrificed
so much for their country in the hour of her
peril, and to bestow honor where honor is due.